| Centre for Entrepreneurship Development

On 27.6.24 a program was organized on the title “Role of Engineers in Entrepreneurship” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 66 students and 1 faculty participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mr Pradeep T Rajan, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker started session by asking who is owner of Tesla, Elon Musk, an engineer and entrepreneur, has led multiple successful ventures, including SpaceX and Tesla. His technical knowledge and leadership skills have been instrumental in the success of these companies. The speaker said entrepreneurship is a vital engine of economic growth and innovation, and engineers play a crucial role in this dynamic ecosystem. As problem-solvers and innovators, engineers possess the technical knowledge and analytical skills that are essential for the development of new technologies, products, and processes. He highlighted the roles that engineers can play in entrepreneurship, highlighting the unique contributions they make to the startup ecosystem and the benefits they derive from entrepreneurial endeavors. The speaker said that Engineers as Innovators, Engineers are trained to identify problems and design effective solutions. This skill set is fundamental in entrepreneurship, where the ability to recognize unmet needs and create viable products or services can lead to successful ventures. Their technical expertise allows them to develop innovative solutions that are both feasible and scalable. He sighted the development of smartphone technology. Engineers identified the limitations of existing mobile phones and designed advanced features such as touchscreens, high-resolution cameras, and powerful processors. He employs Engineering Skills in Product Development, Engineers are adept at transforming ideas into tangible products. They use their knowledge of materials, mechanics, and electronics to create prototypes that can be tested and refined. Rapid prototyping techniques, such as 3D printing, allow engineers to quickly iterate on designs and improve product functionality. He concludes the speech and said Engineers are invaluable to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, bringing a unique blend of technical expertise, innovative thinking, and problem-solving skills. Their contributions are essential at every stage of the entrepreneurial process, from identifying opportunities and developing products to leading teams and commercializing technology. By embracing entrepreneurship, engineers can drive innovation, create economic value, and make a significant impact on society.

On 05.06.2024 an Expert Talk on World Environment Day "Our Land Our Nature" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. M. Robinson, Assistant Professor, Science and Humanities, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 46 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr R Prem Ananth AP/ECE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr R Prem Ananth, IIC Convenor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. In his welcome address he explained the need for this celebration day activity. He said that World Environmental Day was celebrated annually on June 5th, aims to raise global awareness and encourage action for environmental protection. This year's theme "Our Land, Our Nature," emphasized the importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity for the health of our planet and future generations.

The guest speaker Mr. M. Robinson started his speech by providing an overview of the current state of global land resources, emphasizing the alarming rates of deforestation, soil degradation, and loss of biodiversity. The speaker insisted the importance of Biodiversity by providing essential services, such as clean air and water, pollination of crops and climate regulation. He highlighted the Sustainable Land Management practices that can help mitigate environmental damage. He cited the successful initiatives around the world, including reforestation projects, sustainable agriculture practices, and community-led conservation efforts. He elaborated how changes in land used to contribute in greenhouse gas emissions and how sustainable practices can help combat climate change. He concluded the session by urging the policymakers to implement and enforce environmental regulations, encourage businesses to adopt sustainable practices, and inspired individuals to make environmentally conscious choices.

The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. Session came to an end with the feedback of the students. The Program was organized by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

On 30th May, 2024 a discussion on “Design-Driven Innovation: How Entrepreneurs Can Lead with Creativity” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 09:15 am to 12.15 pm. Dr.K.Vinukumar, AP/Mech, FXEC and Er.M.S.Kumar, Lab Technician were the resource person. 40 students and 1 faculty member participated in the program.

The guest speakers explained the design-driven innovation and its importance for the development of Innovative products which eventually helps the innovators to develop startups. He also highlighted the crucial role of creativity in differentiating products and services in a competitive market. The Key Concepts are Understanding Users, Creative Problem-Solving, Iterative Development. Differentiation through Design and Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration. The speaker asked the students to integrate design-driven innovation into the development of new mechanical systems or devices. This might involve collaborating with engineers and designers to create prototypes of new mechanical components, conducting user testing and gathering feedback to refine these prototypes, and staying informed about the latest materials and manufacturing processes to push the boundaries of what is possible in mechanical design. Design-driven innovation is a powerful approach for entrepreneurs aiming to lead with creativity. By focusing on user needs, fostering a culture of creative problem-solving, and embracing iterative development, entrepreneurs can create breakthrough products and services. In the context of mechanical engineering, this approach can lead to innovative solutions that advance the field and meet complex user demands. The talk concluded in a lively Q&A, where students delved deeper into design thinking. Their questions covered clarification on specific aspects, implementation strategies, and even the adaptability of these principles across various industries. This interactive exchange yielded valuable insights and highlighted the real-world application of design thinking.

On 28.5.2024 a session on “The Role of Engineers in the Development of Entrepreneurship” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by Ms.Agnes Joshy S , Department of IT, FXEC. 44 students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P. Sooriabrabha , Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker, Ms.Agnes Joshy S , Department of IT , FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS . The resource person discussed the following points in the session. Engineers play a pivotal role in the development of entrepreneurship through their innovative mindset, problem-solving abilities, and technical expertise. They are the architects behind the creation of new products, services, and technologies that form the foundation of entrepreneurial ventures. Engineers contribute to entrepreneurship by developing scalable solutions to societal challenges, designing efficient processes, and optimizing resource utilization. Their understanding of market needs and technological advancements enables them to identify business opportunities and drive innovation within startups and established companies alike. Moreover, engineers often serve as cofounders or key team members in entrepreneurial ventures, bringing their technical acumen and entrepreneurial spirit to the forefront of the development process. Thus, engineers serve as catalysts for entrepreneurial success by bridging the gap between ideas and tangible outcomes, ultimately driving economic growth and societal progress. At the end of the session feedback link was shared to the students and collected the feedback. The interaction between the students and the guest speaker was highly motivating and students gathered more information from the guest speaker.

On 24th May 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized a Session on Angel Investment/ Venture Capital Funding Opportunities for Early-stage Entrepreneurs. The resource person for the program was Ms.P.Thamizh Paavai, Assistant Professor, Department of English, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 41 Civil Engineering students and 1 faculty attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, FXEC.

The resource person explained the main objectives of an Angel Investment/ Venture Capital funding opportunities for early-stage entrepreneurs. She said angel investors are wealthy private investors focused on financing small business ventures in exchange for equity. Unlike a venture capital firm that uses an investment fund, angels use their own net worth. Compared to venture capitalists, angels are also providing smaller amounts for a longer time period. But they do want to see an exit strategy at some point where they can pocket their profits, typically through a public offering or an acquisition. Angel investment is usually reserved for established businesses beyond the startup phase. These companies have shown promise for profits, but still need capital to develop products or grow. She further added that the angel investors typically want 10% to 50% of the company in exchange for funding. It’s important to think about how much equity the company want to give away to an investor for funding. The students asked many questions and it was answered by the resource person.

On 23.5.2024 an awareness on IPR was organized on the title “Significance of Trademarks and Trade Secrets” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 60 students and 1 faculty participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mr Pradeep T Rajan, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker started session by creating an awareness on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). He said understanding IPR helps to protect the inventions, respect the intellectual property of others, and navigate the legal landscape of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. He fosters an awareness of IPR, that empower students to safeguard their creative efforts, promote ethical practices, and enhance their ability to contribute to technological advancement and economic growth. He explained the IPR and types of IPR (patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets). A utility patent is the most common type, protecting new and useful inventions or discoveries, including processes, machines, manufactures, or compositions of matter. It covers the functional aspects of an invention and typically lasts for 20 years from the filing date. A design patent, on the other hand, safeguards the ornamental design of a functional item, focusing on the aesthetic aspect rather than utility. This type of patent protects the visual characteristics of an object for 15 years from the date of grant. This patent provides protection for the plant variety for 20 years from the filing date, ensuring that the patent holder has exclusive rights to the plant's reproduction and sale.

He also said that trademarks and trade secrets are two important forms of intellectual properties in the business world. A trademark is a recognizable sign, design, or expression that identifies and distinguishes products or services of a particular source from those of others. He coated examples include the Nike swoosh, the Apple logo, and the distinctive Coca-Cola bottle shape. He said trademarks helps in building brand identity and consumer loyalty, providing legal protection against unauthorized use that could confuse or deceive consumers. On the other hand, trade secrets encompass confidential business information that provides a competitive edge, such as formulas, practices, processes, designs, instruments, or patterns. He explained the classic example is the recipe for Coca-Cola, which is closely guarded and known only to a few individuals within the company. Unlike trademarks, trade secrets are not registered but are protected through non-disclosure agreements and other security measures. Both trademarks and trade secrets are essential for safeguarding a company's intellectual assets, ensuring long-term competitive advantage and market differentiation.

On 18.5.2024 “Product Display Cum Sale Expo – Me and My Product 2024” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and IIC through offline mode. Francis Xavier Engineering College Students of I MBA exhibited their own products. The session was organized by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 4.30 PM on 17.05.24. 54 students and four faculty members participated.

The program was inaugurated by Dr.Velmurugan, Principal .Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai. In the MBA Seminar Hall, Students displayed their products. Students were segmented into two categories. One sort of students displayed their entrepreneurial skills with their products like Craftworks, Paintings, Palm arts, Flower works, Photo Corner, Food and Beverages and another category of students displayed trading products like readymade garments, stationeries, imitation jewelries, women accessories and food and beverages. Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director and IIC President evaluated the entrepreneurial and trading skills of the students. Students presented their ideas through their products and also explained their marketing strategies and competitive analysis to the jury.

Students, faculties and administrative staff of Francis Xavier Engineering College participated and bought the products displayed in the expo. Students promoted their products by displaying their social media accounts also. Finally at the valedictory session, prize winners were announced. Miss Thaamini, Student of I MBA got First Prize in the Me and My product category and Miss Pavithra and Harini of I year students got I Prize for Sales Expo Category.

On 16.5.2024 a seminar on "Unlocking the Power of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Strategies for Innovation, Protection and value Creation" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.E.Manohar, Associate Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10:30PM –12:30PM. 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by B. Diviyapriya AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by B.Diviyapriya, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker said that from the smartphone in our pocket to the films that entertain us, IPR is pivotal in encouraging progress and ensuring that creators and inventors can reap the rewards of their hard work. He said IPR refers to the legal rights given to individuals or companies over the creations of their minds. These rights are designed to foster an environment where creativity and innovation can flourish by providing inventors and creators with the protection, they need to commercialize their inventions and creations. The main types of IPR include patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Innovation is the lifeblood of progress. It is through new ideas and inventions that we tackle the world's biggest challenges and improve our quality of life. Intellectual property rights play a crucial role in promoting innovation by providing inventors with the security that their ideas will be protected from unauthorized use. This encourages more investment in research and development, as businesses and individuals feel confident that they can achieve a return on their investment. Protecting intellectual property is not just about securing profits; it’s about maintaining the integrity of the creative and innovative process. When ideas and creations are adequately protected, it ensures that the original creators receive recognition and compensation for their work. This, in turn, fosters a culture of respect and fairness within the industry. Copy rights, for example, protect the works of authors, musicians, and artists, ensuring they maintain control over how their creations are used and distributed. Trademarks protect brands, helping consumers distinguish between products and ensuring that businesses can build a reputation based on the quality and reliability of their goods and services. Intellectual property is not just a legal concept; it is a valuable business asset. Properly managed, IP can significantly enhance the value of a company and open up new revenue streams. Licensing agreements, for example, allow IP owners to grant permission to others to use their property in exchange for royalties, thus generating income without directly exploiting the IP themselves. In conclusion, intellectual property rights are a cornerstone of modern innovation, protection, and value creation. By understanding and strategically managing IP, businesses and individuals can unlock significant benefits, driving progress and creating sustainable economic value. Let us continue to foster an environment that respects and promotes intellectual property, ensuring that creativity and innovation can thrive for the benefit of all.

On 15.5.2024 a seminar on "Networking for Success: Unleashing Entrepreneurial Potential" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.G.Aravind Swaminathan, HOD, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1:30PM – 4:00PM. 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by B.Diviyapriya AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by B.Diviyapriya, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker said, in the world of entrepreneurship, ideas are just the beginning. The path from concept to success is paved with connections, collaborations, and strategic relationships. Networking is not just a skill; it’s an essential component of an entrepreneur’s toolkit. Networking is the art of building and nurturing relationships that can provide support, guidance, and opportunities. It extends beyond merely exchanging business cards or adding contacts on LinkedIn. It’s about forming genuine, mutually beneficial connections with individuals who can offer different perspectives, expertise, and resources. Successful networking can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. It can connect you to potential investors, partners, mentors, and customers.

These relationships can provide invaluable advice, emotional support during tough times, and opportunities for growth and collaboration. Networking opportunities are everywhere – from industry conferences and meetups to online forums and social media. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram can be powerful tools for connecting with like-minded professionals and potential collaborators. Attend local events, join professional groups, and participate in online communities relevant to your industry. In conclusion networking is more than a business activity; it’s a strategic tool for unleashing your entrepreneurial potential. By building authentic relationships, leveraging diverse platforms, offering value, and seeking mentorship, you can create a powerful network that supports and propels your entrepreneurial journey.

On 15.05.2024 a session on "Opportunities in Online to become an Entrepreneurs" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mrs.M.Deepa ,Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 12.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 55 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.S.Freeda Jebamalar AP/CSBS. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes PoobalaRayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs.S.Freeda Jebamalar, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced the guest speaker Mrs.M.Deepa, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining about starting a new business venture also referred to as a start-up which requires careful planning. She discussed about the Freelancing, consulting, blogging which plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of innovation. Leaders should champion new ideas, allocate resources, and provide support and guidance to innovative initiatives. The guest speaker gave lot of live examples such as affiliate marketing, free lancing, dropshipping, social media management and blogger. She discussed the ethical challenges such as data privacy, transparency, and responsible marketing. At last she encourage the participants to incorporate ethical principles into their business model and company culture. The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality. The interaction between the students and the guest speaker was highly encouraging.

On 14.05.2024 a Session on " Influencer Marketing: Basics and its significance in Startup Initiatives " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mr. Jey Siddharth, III-CSE CEO of Heleyon Technologies, Student Startup Founder, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM-4.00 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. In today's digital age, influencer marketing has emerged as a cornerstone of effective marketing strategies, especially for startups looking to establish their presence in competitive markets. Mr. Jey Siddharth, the startup founder and product innovator, sheds light on the fundamentals of influencer marketing and underscores its vital role in startup success. He said, “Influencer marketing is not just about broad reach but also about authenticity”. Influencers who genuinely believe in the product can deliver more convincing and trustworthy endorsements. Setting clear goals is crucial, whether it's increasing brand awareness, driving sales, or growing a social media following. Success can be measured using metrics like engagement rates, click-through rates, and return on investment (ROI). Successful examples of influencer marketing include beauty brand Glossier, which leveraged influencers to grow from a blog to a billion-dollar company, and Daniel Wellington, a watch brand that saw significant sales growth through Instagram influencer partnerships. Guest speaker said that, Influencer marketing is a powerful tool for startups, enabling them to build brand awareness, credibility, and customer engagement cost-effectively. Students interacted with the guest speaker and gathered more information about the concept.

On 14.05.2024 a Guest Lecture on "Freelancing :A Startup Business Opportunities” was conducted by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr. F. RichardSingh Samuel, Assistant Professor of Francis Xavier Engineering College at 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM. 50 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MC6A. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The event began with a friendly greeting from Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, Head of the department of MCA at Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her introduction, she pointed out the key focuses of the event: business innovation, new businesses, and fostering imaginative thinking. The speaker began by explaining what freelancing is. It is when people work independently, offering their skills and services to different clients without being tied to a single employer. This type of work can be done from anywhere, which makes it very flexible. Many freelancers work from home or while traveling. He talked about why freelancing is a good way to start a business. It requires very little initial investment. Unlike traditional businesses that may need a lot of money for rent, inventory, or staff, a freelancer usually needs just a computer and an internet connection. This low cost makes it easier for many people to start.

The guest lecture mentioned the variety of work available. Freelancers can offer many types of services such as writing, graphic design, web development, marketing, and even consulting. This wide range means that many people can find something that matches their skills and interests. He says that networking is very important in freelancing. I emphasized how building connections can lead to more job opportunities. I suggested using social media and online platforms to connect with potential clients. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn are very useful for finding work and building a professional network.

On 11th May 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized a seminar on “Startups Business Ideas in the Construction Industry”. The resource person for the program was Mr.J.Samuel Prabaharan, HOD, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 41 Civil Engineering students attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person stated that the main goal of a construction startup is to create an innovative product or idea that’s never been seen before in the industry. This typically involves identifying a common pain point, creating a new product or service to address it, and optimizing it for the audience. Because construction startups require funding to get started, most business owners search for partners to back their projects. These partners often include other construction businesses, individual investors and venture capital funds. Startup accelerators and incubators are also popular options for new startups looking for an initial round of funding.

The resource person also stated that the construction sector is moving towards digitization at an unprecedented pace. From project management software to AI-driven design tools, the digital tools available today are helping companies streamline operations, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. Companies like Procore, Autodesk, and PlanGrid are leading the way, offering innovative solutions that cater to the unique needs of the construction industry. He further added that the sustainability is no longer just a buzzword; it's a necessity. With the growing emphasis on eco-friendly construction, there's a surge in demand for sustainable building materials. Startups like Arqlite are at the forefront, producing recycled aggregates that are both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The speaker motivated the students to think about innovative solutions for the problems faced by the construction industries.

On 11.05.2024 a Session on " National Technology Day " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. S. B. Jeshurun, Assistant Professor - Department of MBA, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 11.00 AM-12.30 PM. 51 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The Guest speaker said that this day marks not just a celebration of technological achievements across our nation but also serves as a reminder of the pivotal moments in our history where technology has elevated our economic and social structure. Then stated, “The origin of National Technology Day goes back to the achievements that showcased our country's technological prowess to the world”. This day, as many of you might know, commemorates a series of successful nuclear tests that highlighted our scientific community's capabilities. It is a testament to the spirit of our scientific community's dedication and perseverance. In an era where technology transcends traditional boundaries, our role as entrepreneurs and innovators becomes crucial. It involves not only understanding technology but also responsibly integrating it into viable business models that can address real-world problems. Whether it's through developing sustainable solutions for energy, creating more equitable healthcare systems through telemedicine, or enhancing education through e-learning platforms, technology remains as the core of these entrepreneurial solutions. He encouraged the students to think about how technology can be used for doing business activities. The session was an interactive one all the participants interacted with the guest speaker.

On 10.05.2024 a session on "Converting Opportunity in to Business Venture: To Earn While Learn” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department from 1.30 PM to 04.30 PM. The session was handled by Er. P. Harries Pandi, Co-Founder, Heyareweare Technologies, III year CSBS student of Francis Xavier Engineering College. 40 students and 1 faculty participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr R Prem Ananth, he welcomes the guest speaker. He said that the guest speaker is running a successful startup in the field of Augmented Reality Services & Virtual Reality Services. Through his company Heyareweare they focused on providing Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) services to the customers who are in need of our services. They offer a wide range of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) services that can help businesses of all sizes to achieve their goals.

The guest speaker started the session and gave an introduction to the fundamental concepts of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of innovation, risk-taking, and resilience in the entrepreneurial journey. The guest speaker shared valuable insights from his personal entrepreneurial journey. He discussed the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and the strategies employed in establishing Heyareweare Technologies as a successful venture. He elaborated on the significance of recognizing opportunities in various domains, including technology, social trends, and market gaps. He encouraged students to adopt a proactive approach in identifying problems that can be solved through innovative solutions. The speaker provided practical advice on how to convert ideas into viable business ventures. He discussed the importance of market research, prototyping, and iteration in the product development process. The speaker shared how the Kamath brothers recognized the need for a low-cost, technology-driven brokerage platform in India's financial market. They identified an opportunity to democratize stock trading and investing, particularly among the youth and retail investors. The students learned about the innovative business model adopted by Zerodha characterized by low brokerage fees, transparent pricing, and a user-friendly trading platform. He shared anecdotes and real-life examples to illustrate the importance of learning from failures and adapting to changing market dynamics. The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where students had the opportunity to seek clarification on various aspects of entrepreneurship directly from the guest speaker.

On 10.5.2024 a talk on "Building a Resilient Business: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. N. V Selvam, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 61 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. she started his welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights were the themes of IIC. She also welcomes all the students and encouraged the students to listen and requested all the students to rise more doubts and make the sessions more interactive.

The internal resource person Mr. N. V Selvam began with the Introduction to Importance of Resilience in business. He explained Understanding the changing Business Landscape. He had explored about Identifying Potential Challenges and Risks. He explained Developing a Proactive mindset like cultivate the forward-thinking mentality, continuously scanning the horizon for potential disruption and opportunities to stay ahead of the curve. He also explained Fostering a culture of Adaptability like Embracing change, Empowering Employees, Flexible processes, Continuous learning. He talked about some Implementing effective crisis Management Strategies like Asses Risks, develop a Plan, Train and Prepare employees. He also explained Leveraging Technology to build Resilience, Diversifying Revenue Streams and Optimizing Operations, Cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders, Embracing change and building a Resilient Future.

On 10th May, 2024 the Entrepreneurship Development Centre and IIC in association with Mechanical Engineering department organized a discussion “Igniting the Young Minds towards Entrepreneurship”. Dr.K.Vinukumar, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. 44 students and 1 staff member participated in the program.

The speaker explained the concept of entrepreneurship and why entrepreneurship must be promoted among the students. He gave live examples from the successful Indian entrepreneurs. The resource person explained the entrepreneurial skills required to run the concern successfully. He also highlighted the successful startups such as Meesho, Swiggy, Ola Cabs and Razorpay etc. The guest speaker gave number of innovative ideas in the field of mechanical engineering which can be explored by the mechanical engineering students. He also explained the government support in the for starting a startups and the financial support provided by the government through different schemes. The speaker highlighted the opportunities available to start a business establishment in the industrial estates under the control of SIDCO and SIPCOT.

The session was very much interactive, students interacted freely with the guest speaker and gathered more information.

On 08.05.2024 Guest Lecture of “Cultivating Innovation in the Entrepreneurial Journey” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and Institution’s Innovation council. The resource person was Dr. S.B. Jeshrun Associate Professor, Department of Management Studies Francis Xavier Engineering College .The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, from 9.30 to 10.15 on 08.05.24. 30 students are participated.

The program coordinator welcomed the guest speaker. The speaker started his speech by highlighting the entrepreneurial journey of the Indian entrepreneurs citing the examples. He also explained the role of innovation in the success of the entrepreneurial journey. While giving a lot of examples of successful entrepreneurs he listed the innovative ideas which can be converted in to business ventures. Interestingly he asked the students to present their innovative business ideas. Then he highlighted the role of the government in promoting entrepreneurship and developing the startups through various funding schemes.

Then he presented existing innovations and motivated students to think innovatively to enter into entrepreneurship. He talked about embracing change such as adaptability, growth mindset, resilience to become successful entrepreneur. After the tea break, he presented how to navigate risk and failure such as risk assessment, failure and learning. He discussed few case studies to highlight the strategies to be followed to succeed in the entrepreneurial journey. The participants interacted with the guest speaker with enthusiasm and gathered lot of information from the interaction.

On 07.05.2024 a session on "Developing Prototype: A Key Towards Innovation" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mrs.A.Anitha ,Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 09.30 AM - 12.30 AM. 48 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs.S.Freeda Jebamalar AP/CSBS. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address and introduced the guest speak by Mrs.S.Freeda Jebamalar, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the process of starting a new business venture which requires careful planning and ethical aspects to ensure its success and sustainability. She discussed about the start-up ecosystem which include the current trends and challenges. She also highlighted the Leadership which plays a crucial role in fostering a culture of innovation. Leaders should champion new ideas, allocate resources, and provide support and guidance to innovative initiatives. The necessary steps were guiding the participants through the process of creating a well-structured business plan for their start-up which emphasize the importance of defining clear goals, objectives, and strategies to achieve sustainable growth. She discussed that the business plan can help participants to the identify potential funding sources and outline financial projections. She discussed about how to encourage ongoing education and skill development. Innovation flourishes in environments where people are constantly learning and expanding their knowledge and how to protect intellectual property. She discussed the ethical challenges such as data privacy, transparency, and responsible marketing. The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys.

On 7.5.2024 a session on "Earn While Learn through Engineering Skills " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Mrs.A.Anitha, AP/CSBS, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 67 students from first year AI&DS and one faculty participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30 PM – 4.00 PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The speaker explained the business opportunities available to the students to earn while learn. The speaker gave lot of live examples which inspires the participants. Through this initiative, students engage in engineering projects that not only enhance their academic knowledge but also provide opportunities for income generation. By collaborating with industry partners, students tackle practical challenges, develop problem-solving skills, and gain valuable experience while earning income. This program fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, empowering students to apply their engineering skills in a meaningful way while still pursuing their education. This model not only enriches the learning experience but also equips students with the tools and mindset necessary for success in the competitive job market. In the end of the session feedback link shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 3.05.2024 a talk on "Nurturing Innovators to Develop Startup” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Ms.M. Sumathi, TP solar Ltd. from 9.30 PM – 12.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person started the speech by addressing the gathering and spoke about entrepreneurship, identifying innovative talent like seek out creative thinkers, recognize passion and drive, Identify cross -Functional Skills. She also encourages the students dedicating their time to connect with experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders, and take Hands -on training, and also encourage the innovates to collaborate and learn from one another’s successes and failures. She spoke about cultivating a collaborative environment like shared workspaces cross functional teams, networking events. She also explained grants and competitions, investor connections and incubator and accelerator programs. She spoke about overcoming challenges and setbacks, celebrating successes and mile stones. She also listed some of the startups in Tamil Nadu and also told some winning history.

On 30th April 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert talk on “Business Opportunities for Civil Engineering Students”. Bothe resource persons for the program were Mr. Madesh, Proprietor, SMP Constructions, Tirunelveli and Mr. Siva subramanian, Proprietor, Phoenix design and interior, Tirunelveli. 42 first year and second year Civil Engineering students and 1 staff member attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

Mr. Siva subramanian explained, how to create 3ds max in architecture. He also motivated the students by explaining the steps involved in the creation of 3d model for interior design and exterior design as follows: as compared to AutoCAD, the process of creating models and drawings in max differs. Left, front, top, and perspective are the four viewports of the software. Since 3ds max is primarily a 3d software, it includes a variety of tools and functions to assist with the creation of 3d models.

Another resource person completely explained about the construction activities and its challenges, and also explained about various requirements for starting a new construction company with little investment. He also asked the students to follow six steps for a new startup such as step 1: conception (creating a comprehensive vision), step 2: team and delivery method selecting (choosing your partners), step 3: design (conceptualizing the vision & creating construction documents), step 4: preconstruction & procurement (planning the construction process), step 5: construction (actualizing the design) and step 6: close-out (wrapping things up).

Finally, both resource persons jointly interacted with the students and explained how to connect 3d max (interior and exterior) business in to the construction business. The interaction between the guest speakers and the participants was encouraging and most of the participants joined in the discussion.

On 30.04.2024 a Guest Lecture on "Green Innovation for Sustainable Future” was conducted by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr.Robinson, Assistant Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College at Tirunelveli at 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM. 40 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The event began with an introduction by Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, Head of the department of MCA at Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker started his speech with climate change, environmental issues and the crisis that demands urgent action. We have the power to make a difference and green innovation is our ticket to a sustainable future. It’s about finding creative solutions to environmental challenges, whether it’s developing renewable energy sources, designing eco-friendly products, or implementing sustainable practices in our everyday lives. It’s about thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. But green innovation isn’t just about saving the planet; it’s also about economic opportunity. The transition to a low-carbon economy is already creating jobs and driving economic growth in sectors like renewable energy, clean transportation, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in green innovation, we’re not just protecting the environment; we’re also building a more prosperous future for generations to come.

He explained the solar and wind power which offer an alternative solution to the energy power. In fact, in some regions, renewables are already the cheapest option for new power generation. As the technology continues to improve and scale up, the cost of renewables will only continue to fall. But green innovation isn’t just about big, flashy technologies; it’s also about everyday choices that we can all make to reduce our environmental footprint.

The students were buzzing with questions and ideas. It was heartening to see their eagerness to learn and their genuine concern about pollution and plastic usage. Many shared personal anecdotes about how they were already trying to reduce their plastic consumption and were looking for more ways to make a positive impact. It was clear that the message had resonated with them, and they were eager to take action.

On 26.4.2024 a seminar was organized on "How to plan for startup and legal and ethical steps " by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Ms.Dharshini, Startup Founder, Final year, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM - 4.00PM. 36 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by B.Diviyapriya AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by B. Diviyapriya, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Today, we embark on a journey into the exhilarating world of startups, where dreams take shape, innovation thrives, and challenges abound. But amidst the excitement, it's crucial to navigate this path with meticulous planning, adherence to legal frameworks, and an unwavering commitment to ethical principles. Join me as we explore the essential steps in planning for a startup and the legal and ethical considerations that underpin its success. Every successful venture begins with a vision—a compelling idea that ignites passion and drives action. But a vision alone is not enough. To transform it into reality, meticulous planning is paramount. Start by defining your business's mission and values. What problem does it solve, and for whom? Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience, competition, and industry trends. Armed with this knowledge, craft a comprehensive business plan outlining your strategy, marketing approach, and financial projections.

First and foremost, choose the right legal structure for your business—a decision that impacts your liability, taxes, and regulatory obligations. Whether you opt for a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation, each structure has its implications and requirements. Next, safeguard your intellectual property through patents, copyrights, and trademarks. Ensure that your contracts and agreements are ironclad, protecting your interests and fostering trust among stakeholders. And above all, adhere to regulatory compliance, permits, licenses, and industry-specific laws with diligence and integrity. As we conclude our exploration of planning for a startup and the legal and ethical steps involved, let us remember that entrepreneurship is more than a journey—it's a testament to human ingenuity, resilience, and creativity.

On 26.04.2024 to Celebrate World Intellectual Property Day a session was organized on the title a “Awareness on Intellectual Property Rights” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. G. Rajakumar, Controller of Examinations, IIC Vice President, Professor/ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 49 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr R Prem Ananth. He said the purpose of the day is to inform the different ways of safeguarding intellectual property such as patents, trademarks, copyright, and others. He also said that intellectual property day is celebrated to encourage and amplify the innovative and creative solutions that are so crucial to building our common future.

The resource person started his speech and asked a question among students, why apple phones are costly than other smart mobile? The students answered that due to its security and camera quality, but the resource person said that even the small screw, apple logo and design is patented. The apple company need to pay royalty to the patent holders. He said Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) encompass a variety of legal protections for intangible assets. They are Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, Trade Secrets, Industrial Designs, Geographical Indications and Plant Variety Protection. The resource person said among the seven rights an engineering student must understand the importance of patents. He said patents protect inventions and innovations, granting exclusive rights to the inventor for a limited period. Patents provide the right to exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing the patented invention without permission. He also spoke about the industrial design patent and copy rights. He said industrial designs protect the visual appearance or aesthetic aspects of a product, such as its shape, configuration, ornamentation, or pattern. Industrial design rights prevent unauthorized copying or imitation of the design and are typically granted for a limited period. He also said copyrights protect original works of authorship, including literary, artistic, musical, and dramatic works, as well as software, databases, and architectural designs. Copyright grants the creator or owner the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, perform, display, or license their work. The resources person concludes the speech by creating awareness on Trademarks and Geographical Indications (GIs). He said trademarks are symbols, names, phrases, or logos used to distinguish goods or services from others in the marketplace. They represent the brand identity of a company or product and can include words, designs, sounds, colors, or any combination thereof. Trademarks provide exclusive rights to use the mark in commerce and prevent others from using confusingly similar marks. He also said that geographical indications identify products originating from a specific geographical location and possessing qualities, reputation, or characteristics attributable to that location. GIs protect the traditional knowledge and cultural heritage associated with products such as wines, spirits, agricultural products, and handicrafts.

A Workshop on the Business Model Canvas specifically tailored for e-commerce was held on April 26th and 27th, 2024. This event was organized collaboratively by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell (EDC) and the Institution’s Innovation Council (IIC), in association with the Department of Information Technology. Day one session was taken by Mrs. S. Freeda Jebamalar, AP/CSBS and second day sessions was led by Dr. Jainul Fathima, Department of Information Technology. 56 students and 2 faculty members participated in the workshop on both the days. The coordination of the workshop was managed by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel, Assistant Professor in the Department of Information Technology.

The guest speaker said that business model canvas is a tool designers use to map out a business or product's key actors, activities and resources, the value proposition for target customers, customer relationships, channels involved and financial matters. Business models are important for both new and established businesses. They help new, developing companies attract investment, recruit talent, and motivate management and staff.

On 25.04.2024 Guest Lecture of “Funding opportunities for startups” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies, Department and Institution’s Innovation council. The resource person was Mr.Siva Baarathi, EDII TN Field Coordinator and Mrs.S .Valli Managing D irector, Vosa Tech Tirunelveli and Chennai. The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, from 9.30AM to 12.30 PM on 25.04.24. 40 students and one faculty member participated.

The program coordinator introduced and welcomed the guest speakers. Mr. Siva Baarathi and he shared business ideas and government opportunities to get money as fund for business. He shared various funding opportunities available for innovative ideas. He presented existing innovations and motivated students to think innovatively in their business. He randomly asked students innovative ideas and he shaped those ideas. To make the students glue to the program, he insisted a task for students based on marketing, sales and profit.

Mrs. Valli, the second speaker shared about her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges faced to turn out entrepreneur. She explained various funding opportunities in banks. She also explained various steps involved in opting funds and also explained procedures clearly. She shared the real life story and experience to make the session interesting and to motivate the students. The program came to an end with vote of thanks. The session evoked good response among the participants and they interacted with the guest speakers.

From 23rd to 25th April 2024 for 3 days “Entrepreneurship Development Program” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute and Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department Vazhndhu Kattuvom Project in association with Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and Institution’s Innovation council. Three EDII trainers namely, Mr.B.Mohamed Fazil, Dr.S.Mahaletchumi and Dr.S.Gayathri were involved in giving training on various topics like Entrepreneurship Development, Marketing and Financial Management. 35 Nano Entrepreneurs from Tirunelveli District attended the training program. On all the days the sessions were conducted from 10.00 a.m to 4.30 p.m

On 23.04.24, the program was started with the welcome address by Mrs.Radha Executive Director Vazhndhu Kattuvom Project. Felicitation address was given by Dr Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC Convener and Director of Entrepreneurship Development Cell, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He motivated nano entrepreneurs and insisted the necessity of accepting changes and trends in today’s competitive world. He shared about product import/ export and e- commerce platforms. Then, Mr. Ganapati Pandian, Vazhndhu Kattuvom Project director delivered about loan and their benefits and also the agenda of three days training and initiation of VKP in motivating nano entrepreneurs.

In the afternoon session, Mohamed Faizal, EDII TN trainer shared the real examples to cultivate self confidence in mind and also he shared about the opportunities and competition in business world. He quoted successful entrepreneurs like Ramaraj Cotton, Arockia Milk and their entrepreneurial journey. He explained the importance resources available locally and how to use resources. He explained the advantage of job providers. Then he motivated participants to present their business and gave valuable suggestions to improve them.

On 24.04.24, second day the EDII TN trainer Dr. S. Mahaletchumi, shared about business plans and ideas. Then, she explained about the strategy of business which includes business market, needed resources for business, market demand and need, financial calculation and most importantly recruitment of skilled labour. The major communication of product is marketing. She clearly explained about the digital marketing and free advertisement to attract customers. She advised the participants to read the newspaper regularly. She conducted games to make the participants energetic and glued to the program.

On 25.04.2024, Dr. S. Gayathri, EDII TN trainer explained about Financial Management in business including all expenses, profit, loss, debt and shares. She shared the financial content with simple example to understand easily for participants. In the afternoon session, trainer shared about business processing development and the program came to an end with valedictory function. In the valedictory function Mr. Ganapati Pandian, Vazhndhu Kattuvom Project director appreciated the participants for the effective participation. Mr.Siva Baarathy, District Coordinator EDII delivered the vote of thanks.

On 22.04.2024 a Talk on " Startup: A Career Choice for the Engineering Graduates" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. J. Antony Robinson, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started his welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights were the themes of IIC.

The resource person started his speech with the introduction to entrepreneurship and gave lot of examples of Indian Startups. He said developing the startup is not an easy job and to make it successful will be very difficult job. He gave the inspirational stories like startup founders Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Sara Blakely. Moreover, he explained the process of developing the startup and making use of local resources for the development of startups. He explained the skills to be developed to manage the startup and adaptability to the situation problem solving and cross -functional collaboration. He also explained the funding resources for developing the startup. He also explained the challenges and risks associated with the startup and the steps to be taken to overcome the same. The participants gained knowledge and understanding about the functioning of startup and the development of startup.

On 22.04.2024 a Guest Lecture on "Intellectual Property Rights for Startup Business Management” was organised by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Dr. V. Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College at Tirunelveli at 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM. 41 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The event began with an introduction from Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, Head of the department of MCA at Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her introduction, she pointed out the key focuses of the event: business innovation, new businesses, and fostering imaginative thinking. The speaker started her speech by explaining the Intellectual Property, how it implemented in business when it comes to startup business strategies and intellectual property rights. It's crucial to understand the importance of safeguarding your innovative ideas and unique approaches. Essentially, intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, symbols, and even names used in commerce. Now, for startups, IP can be a game-changer. It can give you a competitive edge, attract investors, and protect your innovations from being copied.

The guest speaker explained the IP protection available for startup business strategies. Patents are important for the startup and it provides protection to the business properties. Guest speaker spoke about trademarks which provides brand identity. It is the business's face in the market. It is in the form of logos, names, slogans, or even sounds associated with your product or service. Registering the trademarks helps to prevent others from using similar marks that could confuse customers.

Copyrights come into play when the startup creates original works like software, written content, music, or artwork. Copyright protection gives the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, perform, or display the work. Registering copyrights provides additional benefits, like the ability to sue for infringement. Trade secrets are another valuable form of IP protection. These are confidential information that gives your startup a competitive advantage. It could be anything from formulas and algorithms to customer lists and marketing strategies. Keeping trade secrets secure is vital, so consider implementing robust confidentiality measures. The discussion evoked good response among the participants and they interacted with the guest speaker.

On 17.04.2024 a session on " Workshop on How to earn through Digital Media " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mrs. T. Nancy Lydia, Assistant Professor - Department of Information Technology Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM-4.00 PM. 57 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The Guest speaker Mrs. T. Nancy Lydia, began the workshop by highlighting the transformative impact of digital media over the past decade. She emphasized that the digital domain is no longer just an alternative platform but a primary arena for marketing, sales, and engagement. "In today's world, understanding digital media is not just an advantage; it's a necessity," She stressed the importance of originality and authenticity in content. "Your content is your voice. It's how you engage with your audience, so make it count,". One of the highlights of the workshop was the detailed discussion on monetization strategies. The guest speaker explored several avenues for earning through digital media, including advertising, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, subscription models, and digital products. Each method was dissected to understand its potential impact on revenue streams. For instance, she described how affiliate marketing works by showcasing real-life examples where individuals and companies have earned substantial amounts by promoting products and services relevant to their audience. As the workshop neared its conclusion, the speaker emphasized the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the digital media landscape. She pointed out that digital platforms are ever-evolving, and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial.

On 17.04.2024 a Guest Lecture on “Planning a Successful Startup Pitching” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and IIC. The resource person was Dr.R.Prem Ananth, IIC Convenor, Assistant Professor/ Dept. Of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM on 17.04.2024. 43 students and one faculty member participated.

The program coordinator introduced and welcomed the guest speaker Dr.R.Prem Ananth, IIC Convenor, Assistant Professor/ Dept. Of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. He started session with the introduction to entrepreneurship. He motivated the students to become an entrepreneur instead going for employment. He compared the advantages and disadvantages of employment and entrepreneurship. He posted the questions to students related to pitching. Few students answered questions. He then explained the concept of pitching. He also presented the importance of pitching and how elevation pitching would be normally taken place in few minutes to the investors. He highlighted 10 important points regarding pitching.Include the Correct Information, Consider your Investor, Tell a Story(shortly), Include contact information, Create pitches for multiple occasions, Practice, Be confident, Be Respectful, Follow up and Revise

He Quoted “MISTAKE + CORRECTION = LEARNING”

The 2 persons Martin Eberhard, Marc Tarpenning who pitched the business tesla car innovative idea to Elon musk. The guest quoted that it was an impressive pitching. The session concluded with feedback and vote of thanks. It was an interactive session.

On 17th April, 2024 a “Discussion on Geographical Indications (GI) tag products in southern Tamil Nadu and its Entrepreneurial Avenues” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering on 17th April, 2024 at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. 40 students and 1 staff member participated in program. Mr.S.Rakesh, AP/MECH coordinated the session.

The resource person started his speech with the explanation of Geographical Indication and the significance of GI tags. Next he discussed about the importance of preserving the unique characteristics and reputation of GI-tagged products. Then he talked about the identification of GI-tagged products specific to the southern region of Tamilnadu as well as discussion on the historical and cultural significance of these products. Regarding entrepreneurship he shared what are the entrepreneurial avenues based on GI-tagged products, what are the challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs in leveraging GI tags for business and what are the strategies for promoting entrepreneurship in the southern region of Tamilnadu through GI tagged products.

He discussed the existing policies supporting GI-tagged products and delivered suggestions for enhancing the regulatory framework to better facilitate entrepreneurship and deliberated the role of government and other stakeholders in promoting GI-tagged products. Additionally he revealed the examples of successful collaborations in other regions and their lessons for southern Tamilnadu. Finally he discussed the vision for the future of GI-tagged products in southern Tamilnadu, potential areas for growth and innovation and long term sustainability measures for preserving the authenticity and quality of GI-tagged products. The session went on well and the participants interacted with the guest speaker.

The Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science in association with Entrepreneurship Development cell and IIC organised exposure Visit to Thrive Infotech, Theni for the second year Artificial Intelligence and Data Science students on 16.4.2024. 40 students and 2 staff members participated in the exposure visit. Once the students entered the campus the general instruction were provided by the Managing Director, Mr.Rajkumar Thangamani.

The Managing Director, Mr.Rajkumar Thangamani, Thrive Infotech welcomed the students and explained about the Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning. The Managing Director Thrive Infotech discussed about the different types of learning algorithm and network training models. During the visit, the students had the opportunity to gain insights into the latest technologies, practices and innovations in the field of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science as applied in the industrial context. During the session the students were actively engaged in discussions, demonstrations and hands –on activities facilitated by the professionals at Thrive Infotech. During this “Exposure Visit” students had an opportunity to familiarize themselves in Artificial Intelligence and the latest development in the technology. This visit was convened by Dr.A. Anitha Head of the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. Mrs. P.Sooriabrabha, AP/AI&DS and Ms.S.Angel AP/AI&DS were the Coordinators for this exposure visit.

On 16th April, 2024, the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and Institution Innovation Cell (IIC), in association with the Department of Civil Engineering, organized a “Mentoring session on Project Development”. The session took place at the Architecture and Design Applied laboratory from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Totally 15 batches of 54 final year Civil Engineering students presented their projects. The experts from Civil Engineering department evaluated the projects presented by the students. The program was coordinated by Mrs. P.Raja Priya, EDC Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Civil Engineering at Francis Xavier Engineering College Tirunelveli.

The students presented their projects in front of the expert members from civil engineering department. While presenting the projects, students were asked to highlight the technical features and other important points. Enthusiastically students presented their project ideas and defended their project proposal. The expert opinions were given to the presenters to educate the students about the importance of innovation, finally, suggestions were given by the expert members for further improvement. Also, expert members who were present appreciated some of the project development because those project works provide a solution to the current environmental problems, and useful for the sustainable development in the construction sectors. The students were also requested to upload their project ideas in YUKTHI portal and to convert their project into a product in future.

On 12.4.2024 a seminar on "Nurturing Entrepreneurial Mindset: From Idea to Impact " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mr.M.Praveen, Final year, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM - 4.00PM. 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by B.Divyapriya AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by B.Divyapriya, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker said, today, I stand before you to discuss a journey that is not just about business, but about passion, perseverance, and making a difference in the life. It's about nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset and transforming ideas into impactful realities. Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business; it's a mindset—a way of thinking that embraces challenges as opportunities and turns dreams into tangible outcomes. From the inception of an idea to its ultimate impact, every step of this journey is marked by creativity, resilience, and strategic vision. Let's embark on this journey together, starting with the seed of an idea. Ideas are the sparks that ignite innovation. They can come from anywhere—our experiences, observations, or simply from a desire to solve a problem.

The next crucial step is market research. Understanding our target audience, analyzing market trends and assessing the competitive landscape are essential for validating our ideas and refining them into viable opportunities. With a solid foundation in place, it's time to craft a business plan—a roadmap that outlines our goals, strategies, and key milestones. This document not only guides our actions but also serves as a blueprint for attracting investors and stakeholders who share our vision. But ideas alone are not enough; we must bring them to life through action. Developing prototypes, building teams, and executing our plans with precision are the building blocks of success. And let's not forget the importance of iteration—of learning from our failures, adapting to change, and constantly improving our offerings. As our ventures gain traction and momentum, we must remain focused on our ultimate goal: making a meaningful impact. Impact that transcends financial success and leaves a lasting legacy on society, the environment, and the lives of those we serve. But this journey doesn't end with success; it's a continuous cycle of learning, growth, and giving back. As we reach new heights, let us remember to lift others along the way—mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, investing in social causes, and championing sustainability in all that we do.

On 8.4.2024 a session on " Entrepreneurship: An inevitable choice for Engineering graduates " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person, Mr. Winson IV CSE ,FXEC ,Francis Xavier Engineering College. Sixty students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor,Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –12.30PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mr. Winson IV CSE, FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The resource person discussed about entrepreneurship which has emerged as an inevitable choice for engineering graduates. Armed with a diverse skill set encompassing problem-solving, analytical thinking and innovative process, engineering graduates are well-positioned to identify market gaps and create disruptive solutions. Moreover, the rapidly evolving technology sector offers fertile ground for entrepreneurial ventures, where the fusion of engineering expertise with entrepreneurial acumen can lead to ground breaking innovations and scalable businesses. Embracing entrepreneurship not only empowers engineering graduates to chart their own career trajectory but also fosters a culture of innovation, driving societal progress and economic growth. Thus, for many engineering graduates, entrepreneurship represents not just a choice, but a natural pathway towards realizing their full potential and making a meaningful impact. In the end of the session the students gave their feedback.

On 4th April 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on Problem Identification and the Process of Product Development. The resource person for the program was Dharshini M, Founder of Infosmite - Edutech Company, Tirunelveli. 47 civil engineering students and 1 faculty member attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person started the session with a quote “If you know nothing, we make you know something, if you know something, we make you know Everything”. The resource person said that the product development process involves six-stages which involves taking a product from initial concept to final market launch. This process helps to break down the tasks and organize cross-departmental collaboration and to find out how to implement a process of your own. Product development is the process of building a new product, from ideation all the way through launch. Product development begins with those initial brainstorming sessions, when you’re just discussing a budding idea. From there, the process is creative but strategic, and you may have seen it done in a million different ways.

She also explained that the initial stage of the product development process begins by generating new product ideas. This is the product innovation stage, where you brainstorm product concepts based on customer needs, concept testing, and market research. Once you’ve completed the business case and discussed your target market and product functionality, it’s time to define the product. This is also referred to as scoping or concept development, and focuses on refining the product strategy. She also discussed about the funding agencies and the application procedures involved in it. The students asked many questions and the speaker answered all the questions. In fact, it was an interactive session.

On 27.3.2024 a seminar on "Motivating the young Minds towards Developing startups" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The Session was handled by Mr.Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu and Mr.Dharshan Kmar Lingam, Final year CSE Founder of Insteadfood Privates limited,Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM – 4.00 PM. 45 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by B.Diviyapriya AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by B.Diviyapriya, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The Speaker said in any team or organization, some individuals are consistently more likely to come up with ideas that are both novel and useful. As an entrepreneur, you'll face countless obstacles along the way. There will be moments when you feel like throwing in the towel, when the challenges seem insurmountable. But it's during those moments that your resilience will truly shine. Dust yourself off, pick yourself up, and keep moving forward. Remember, it's not about how many times you fall down; it's about how many times you get back up.

I stand before you today not just as an entrepreneur, but as a dreamer—a dreamer who dared to turn ideas into reality, who dared to challenge the status quo, and who dared to pursue a vision against all odds. Finally, I've learned the importance of passion. Passion is the fuel that drives every successful venture. It's what keeps you going when the going gets tough, what inspires others to rally behind your cause, and what ultimately sets you apart from the competition.

On 27.03.2024 a session on "Sharing of Success: Yukti Innovation Challenge” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department from 1.30 PM to 04.30 PM. The session was handled by Er.J.Gladson Joel Raja, III ECE, Yukti Innovation Challenge Finalist 2023, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 42 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr R Prem Ananth and welcomed the guest speaker. He said that guest speaker had participated more than 15 project competition and 7 national and international hackathons. He is also one of the final list of Yukti Innovation challenge. The guest speaker started the session by explaining the Yukti innovation Challenge organized by MIC which offered an opportunity for the students to upload their innovative ideas, prototypes and startup ideas. He said his ideas was selected by the college in the first round and the project was selected in the second round when our college organize the IIC regional Meet. The final presentation was done at the national level.

He suggested the students to use their creativity and develop innovative product. He also said that product refers to an offering intended to fulfill a need or want in the market, while a project refers to a temporary endeavor undertaken to achieve a specific goal or objective. He said through Yukti Innovation Challenge, we can receive grant to convert project to product. Yukti Innovation Repository is a concept related to fostering innovation and creativity within an organization shared the importance of Yukti innovation repository. The primary purpose of Yukti Innovation Repository is to collect and showcase innovative ideas, projects, or solutions developed within an organization or a community. Yukti Innovation Repository categorizes and organizes innovations based on different criteria such as industry, technology, department, or problem domain. This makes it easier for users to search and access relevant innovations. Yukti Innovation Repository plays a crucial role in nurturing a culture of innovation, fostering collaboration, and driving positive change within organizations and communities. He also explained how to register and upload ideas and prototypes in the repository. Through Yukti repository every year Yukti Innovation Challenge is conducted, it holds significant importance in fostering innovation, driving problem-solving, and promoting collaboration within an organization or community. Participation in the challenge provides valuable learning and development opportunities for participants, allowing them to enhance their problem-solving skills, learn new technologies or methodologies, and expand their professional networks. The winner will receive maximum fund of Rs 10,00,000 for product development.

On 27th March, 2024 “A Discussion on How to Scaleup a Start-up” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Mr.S.Selvakumar, Student Entrepreneur, Founder of Z Designers, Tirunelveli. 40 students and 1 staff member participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

The resource person started with the explanation of startup and the importance of startups in the economic condition of the nation. Scaling up a start-up requires careful planning and strategic decision-making to ensure sustainable growth. Then he said understanding the various stages and challenges of scaling up can help to prepare and navigate the journey effectively. The speaker also highlighted that Market analysis, Competitor evaluation & Consumer behavior insights are the key elements for understanding the market and target audience. Regarding developing a scalable business model, resource person said that innovation, flexibility & scalability planning are the key drivers.

A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the role of talent acquisition and team building in the scaling process. The resource person emphasized the importance of hiring individuals who align with the company's vision, values, and culture. Strategies for attracting top talent and fostering a culture of innovation were also explored. Managing resources efficiently was identified as a key determinant of success during the scaling phase. The talk addressed strategies for prioritizing investments, optimizing cash flow, and leveraging external funding sources such as venture capital, angel investors, and strategic partnerships. Technology was highlighted as a powerful enabler of scalability, allowing start-ups to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and deliver a superior customer experience. The resource person discussed the strategic adoption of technology solutions, including cloud computing, data analytics, and automation tools. The talk concluded with a discussion on the common challenges and risks associated with scaling a start-up, such as market saturation, competition, regulatory hurdles, and organizational complexity. Strategies for mitigating these risks and maintaining agility were explored.

On 26.03.2024 a session on "Introduction to Neuro Linguistic Programming and Awareness to Kickstart Entrepreneurship" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department from 1.30 PM to 04.30 PM. The session was handled by Ms. Pavithra Sermaraj Konar, Owner of Vaniha The Label, International Certified NLP practitioner, Mumbai and Er. Muthu Raman A, Startup Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO - Kasadara Tech, Founder & Chief Design Officer - Reality Studio, Digital Marketing Manager at Frigate.ai. 56 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr R Prem Ananth, he welcomes the guest speakers. He said, we have two guest speaker one NLP practitioner and another Startup Entrepreneur, they came here to provide foundational knowledge about NLP techniques and how they can be applied to enhance entrepreneurial skills and mindset. He also welcomes all the students and requested the students to be more interactive and make the session more useful.

The guest speaker Startup Entrepreneur Er. Muthu Raman A, started the session and share his entrepreneurial ventures and achievements. He narrated his entrepreneurial journey, including the inception of his ideas and ventures. He also discussed the challenges faced when he was a student entrepreneur, such as time management, financial constraints, balancing academic responsibilities and shared personal anecdotes and lessons learned from overcoming obstacles. He also gave tips for effective time management and prioritization of tasks. The guest speaker speech creates an awareness and motivation among the students.

The next guest speaker NLP practitioner spoke about the basic principles and concepts, including the relationship between mind, language, and behavior and also explains how NLP techniques can be used to reprogram thought patterns and behaviors of an entrepreneur. She discussed how NLP techniques improve communication skills, such as rapport building and active listening, essential for networking and negotiations in entrepreneurship. Strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs and building confidence and resilience among entrepreneurs. Visualization and goal-setting exercises to clarify entrepreneurial objectives and motivate action. She also quoted a case study highlighting successful entrepreneurs who have utilized NLP principles to achieve their goals. She concluded the session and said how NLP techniques cultivate the growth-oriented mindset, to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and achieve success in their entrepreneurial endeavors

On 21.3.24 a session was organized on the title a “Achieving Problem-Solution Fit and Product-Market Fit” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 46 students and 1 faculty participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mr Pradeep T Rajan, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker in the morning session explained the process of identification of problem and the sources for identifying the problem. While giving details regarding the sources and process of identification of the problem, he gave number of live examples. He also said that a probable solution should also developed for the problem considering the end user and the market conditions for the same. Unless the market is not analysed properly in that situation also the product will fail in the market. Therefore, in order to avoid the failure of the product in the market, the end user and other marketing forces should be analysed properly before launching the product in the market. The resource person discussed the process of understanding customer needs, designing a solution that meets those needs, and testing it with users to determine if there is an adequate level of adoption. The speaker discussed how problem-solution fit is achieved through a process of understanding customer needs, designing a solution to meet those needs, and testing it with users to determine if there is an adequate level of adoption. The speaker then discussed the product-market fit, which they defined as “the degree to which a given market wants or needs a given product”.

The guest speaker in the afternoon session discussed 5 steps to product market fit. The steps are finding problem/solution fit and an audience, how to get started building an MVP, finding the right metrics to track, and a solid release cycle. The speaker also insisted the audience to build their MVP (Minimum Viable Product) fast and with minimum resources. The MVP should reach the market very fast for more reviews. This session was an informative and the speaker shared valuable insights based on the present trend prevailing in the market. All the students were benefited by the session. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly appreciated.

On 21.03.2024 & 22.03.2024 a Workshop on "Prototype / Process Design and Development" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mrs. M. Aruna Devi, Assistant Professor - Department of Information Technology, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM - 4.00 PM on both the days. 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT.

On the first day the resource person explained the fundamental principles of design thinking and its relevance in the modern landscape of product development and innovation. With the use of multimedia presentations, she illustrated the lifecycle of a product from ideation to the final prototype, emphasizing the iterative nature of designing and the importance of being user-centric. She explained the conceptual design and the tools and techniques used in creating effective prototypes. She also explained various prototyping materials and digital tools, providing a comprehensive overview of their applications and limitations.

The session began on rapid prototyping techniques, where she demonstrated the use of 3D printing and other rapid prototyping tools. Following this, the guest speaker led a critical discussion on process design and development, guiding attendees through the journey of scaling a prototype into a market-ready product. She shared insights into material selection, manufacturing processes, and quality control, highlighting the challenges one might face during this phase and strategies to overcome them. The workshop not only equipped students with valuable skills and knowledge but also inspired them to approach design challenges with a fresh perspective and renewed enthusiasm.

On 21.03.2024 a session on " The role of Engineers in Developing a Startup- A Discussion" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person, Mrs. S. Poornam AP/AI&DS , Francis Xavier Engineering College. Sixty students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor,Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –12.30PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mrs. S. Poornam AP/AI&DS FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The resource person discussed the role of engineers in developing a startup and how engineers serve as the driving force behind innovation and product development. The speaker explained that how an engineer can translate ideas into tangible products or services, utilizing their technical expertise and problem-solving skills acquired during their learning process. Engineers act as the backbone of startups, contributing to the development of software platforms, designing hardware solutions, and building scalable innovative products. Their ability to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical teams fosters effective collaboration and facilitates the rapid iteration necessary for startup growth. Finally the speaker said that the engineers are instrumental in shaping the technological foundation of startups and positioning them for success in competitive markets. Through this program, participants showed keen interest in the concepts, methodologies and gave satisfactory feedback at the end of the session.

On 20.03.2024 a session on "Session on "How to plan for start-up and legal & Ethical steps" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Ms.Agnes Joshy S , Assistant Professor, Department of Information Technology, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 01.30 PM - 04.05 PM. 48 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address and introduced the guest speaker. The speaker started the speech by explaining about starting a new business venture and the legal and ethical aspects to ensure its success and sustainability. She discussed about Start-up Landscape by providing the participants with an overview of the start-up ecosystem which include the current trends, challenges, and opportunities. She discussed different types of start-ups (e.g., tech, social, service-based) and their unique planning requirements which enable the participants to identify their niche and target market for better planning. She explained the ways for drafting a Comprehensive Business Plan. The guest speaker guided the participants through the process of creating a well-structured business plan for their start-up which emphasize the importance of defining clear goals, objectives, and strategies to achieve sustainable growth.

She discussed that the business plan can help the participants to the identify potential funding sources and outline financial projections. She also highlighted the legal formalities while developing the startups such as registration and licensing procedures which are required to operate legally in their specific industry and location. Moreover, she explained the importance of protecting the intellectual property rights. She discussed the ethical challenges such as data privacy, transparency, and responsible marketing. At last she encourage the participants to incorporate ethical principles into their business model and company culture.

The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

On 18th & 19th March, 2024 a “Workshop on Product Design & Development” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 09:30 am to 04.30 pm. Mr.S.David Blessley, AP/MECH, FXEC was the resource person. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

On Mar 18, 2024 (Forenoon Session) resource person discussed about the five major elements of product design & development such as introduction, understanding user needs, idea generation & concept development, design thinking, design tools & technologies. The resource person commenced with an overview of workshop objectives & agenda and also he discussed about the importance of product design & development in today’s competitive market. Then he told about the techniques for emphasizing with users and identifying their needs. Next he conducted the brainstorming session to generate creative ideas and also he deliberated about prototyping techniques to visualize and iterate on concepts.

On Mar 18, 2024 (Afternoon Session) resource person began with the introduction to design thinking methodology and given the hands on exercises for students to apply design thinking principles for the purpose of solving real-world problems. Finally he concluded the DAY 1 with the overview of design software & tools as well as practical demonstrations & tutorials on CAD software and prototyping tools.

On Mar 19, 2024 (Forenoon Session) resource person told about the importance of user testing & feedback in the design process and iterative approaches to refine & improve product prototypes. Then he gave the overview of intellectual property rights in product design and legal aspects of product development including patents & trademarks.

On Mar 19, 2024 (Afternoon Session) resource person concluded with the analysis of successful product design & extracting lessons and best practices from industry examples.

On 15.03.2024 a “Discussion on Successful Indian Startup companies” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 40 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE & Mr. S. Selvakumar.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started her welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She explained the purpose of organising this discussion on Indian Startup Companies. She also gave the Introduction to Startup Ecosystem, Key Success Factors for Startups, Challenges Faced by the Startups, Government Initiatives and Future Trends and Opportunities. She encouraged the students to share information about startup companies.

Danil and his team explained what is the difference between stat-ups and business. Kavitha and her team discussed about Swiggy and how the swiggy works and they explained the challenges faced by Swiggy in the initial days. Pushpa and her team discussed about Dream 11. Shafeega and her team discussed about the strategies followed by the Indian startups. Samsu and her team presented the initiatives of Paytm and how they are generating their revenues through Paytm. Ajitha and her team explained about history of Ola and growth of Ola with lot of live examples. Hema and her team discussed about Meesho. They shared some information about the functioning of Meesho and their growth initiatives. The participants raised few questions which were clarified by the students with examples. Mrs Mary Sumitha moderated the discussion and shared her views about the startup and the role played by the startups in developing the Indian Economy.

On 14.03.2024 “Workshop and Competition on business plan/ Pitch Deck” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC of Francis Xavier Engineering College through offline mode in association with Department of Management Studies. The session was handled by Mr. Sadayappan Subramaniam, Entrepreneur, Mentor and Startup Speaker from 9:30 pm to 4:30 pm on 14.03.2024, 40 students and two faculty participated.

The program started with a welcome speech and introduction of the guest speaker. Felicitation address was delivered by Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director, IIC President of Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker started his speech explaining the business plan and the importance of preparing a well-defined and structured business plan with lot of examples. He divided the participants into different groups and gave some interesting task to involve them in the session and to make the session more interesting. The first session was the workshop of business plan. Students were enthusiastically made their team business plan. From that plan, guest speaker discussed about customer preferences and market ideas.

Then he discussed about drafting business plan and shared real examples. Then the participants presented their business ideas and their business plan. In the afternoon session chief guest addressed the positive points and area of improvements in presented business plan and then the competition was started. Six teams from Sathakathulla Appa College, St.Johns Arts and Science College, St.Xaviers College and UG students of Francis Xavier Engineering Colleges presented the business plan for their innovative products. Innovative Business ideas were presented based on the market research. A team from Xaviers College was runner up and a team from Sathakathulla Appa College won the first prize. Finally, certificates were distributed for all participants. Students gave positive feedback about the event such as interactive and informative session. To conclude this event Pavithra, I MBA student delivered the vote of thanks.

On 14.03.2024 a Guest Lecture on "Prototype and Process Design Development” was conducted by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr. Jai Siddharth, Founder& CEO-Heylon Technologies,Tirunelveli 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM. 50 students and 1 faculity participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The event began with greeting from Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, Head of the department of MCA at Francis Xavier Engineering College and introduced the guest speaker. The guest speaker explained the significance of conceptualizing ideas and translating them into tangible designs. This initial step is crucial as it lays the foundation for the entire product development journey. Moving forward, the speaker elucidated on the process of creating prototypes. He explained how prototypes serve as tangible representations of ideas, allowing designers and engineers to evaluate functionality, aesthetics, and feasibility. Through hands-on examples, he explained the iterative nature of prototyping, emphasizing the value of learning from each iteration to refine the final product.

Furthermore, the speaker emphasized the importance of rigorous testing throughout the development process. They highlighted how testing helps identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, ultimately leading to a more robust and user-friendly product. In conclusion, the guest speaker underscored the necessity of innovation and experimentation in design and development. He encouraged the participants to embrace creativity and explore diverse approaches, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and advancement in the field of product design.

On 13.03.2024 a session on "How to plan for startup and legal and ethical steps" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mr.S.David Blessley, Assistant Professor - Department of Mechanical Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM - 4.00 PM. 59 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address and introduction of the guest speaker. The speaker explained the startups and the importance of startups. He highlighted the examples of successful Indian startups. He also gave information about the problem identification and development of innovative product to address the gap in the market. The resource person gave number of live examples for the problems already exists in the social domine. On the legal front, the guest speaker stressed the importance of selecting the correct business structure, securing the business name, registering the company, and obtaining all necessary licenses and permits, alongside understanding tax implications. Ethically, he underscores the importance of building a business that prioritizes social responsibility, ethical labor practices, consumer privacy, and environmental sustainability. He also highlighted the critical nature of protecting intellectual property rights, ensuring compliance with all relevant industry regulations, and fostering transparent and fair dealings with all stakeholders. His guidance is instrumental for entrepreneurs aiming to navigate the complexities of starting a business while maintaining legal and ethical integrity. The speaker said that the path to building a resilient and respected business is paved with legal diligence and ethical integrity, guiding principles that serve both as a shield against unforeseen challenges and a beacon towards sustainable success. The participants interacted with the guest speaker and gathered lot of information and benefitted a lot.

On 5.03.2024 Exposure Visit to “St.John Freight Systems Ltd and SDR Polymers, Tuticorin” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC of Francis Xavier Engineering College. The visit was arranged for I year MBA students from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm on 5.3.2024 and was accommodated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College with 2 faculties of management studies department.

In the morning session students went to St.John Frieght system Ltd, Thoothukdi. The objectives of this visit was to give exposure in container logistics. St. John owns General Warehouse space of over 200,000 Sq Ft in Tuticorin for storing International and Domestic Cargo and through various partners on specific customer requirements. Students were first taken to loading and unloading sections. Waste papers are imported from another country, through St. John freight system limited and then transported to Coimbatore and Tirupur paper Mills. Students got opportunity to see specialized equipment’s and tools deployed for loading and unloading purposes. Documentation, clearance and shipping processes were explained to the students.

In the afternoon students visited SDR Polymers Private Limited, Thoothukudi a Flagship company of the SDR Group of Companies, a leading Business House located in Tuticorin. Students visited the Jambo bag manufacturing process, the different types of Jambo bags according to the customer preferences produced by SDR Polymers. Students visited the manufacturing plant, Quality checking section. They import the raw material from Reliance. The company export the bags all over the world especially to UK and USA. Students visited extrusion process, where a mix of virgin ingredients are melted and shaped into tapes of specific measurements. Then students were grouped into teams and the President of the company clearly explained the entrepreneurial opportunities of this industry and he motivated students to enter into this business.

On 4.03.2024 a " BUSINESS MODEL CONTEST " was organized by the Robotics and Automation Lab and Electrical Drives and Automation Lab and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The business model contest was organised by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College and Dr. N. Hemalatha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 33 students and 3 faculties participated. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. A. Ravi, Head of Department Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The contest allowed students to apply theoretical knowledge to real world scenarios and gain practical experience in developing and pitching business ideas. It emphasized innovation and creativity. Nearly 40 students from various departments participated in the contest.

Dr. V. M. Sangeetha, AP/MBA evaluated the performances of the teams. The students were rewarded with cash prizes and certificates. Dr. N. Hemalatha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering coordinated the event.

On 28th February 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized National Science Day: Indigenous technologies for Viksit Bharat. The resource person for the program was Mrs.R.Swetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 42 civil engineering Students attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person welcomes the participants to the seminar for the National science day. She stated the origin, theme, historical significance and celebration purpose of the national science day. She also mentioned elaborately about the significance of the national science day and its four important points such as commemorates a Groundbreaking Scientific Discovery: The day celebrates the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C.V. Raman, a significant milestone for Indian science. Recognizes the Contributions of Scientists: It honours the achievements of Indian scientists and their contributions to scientific progress. Promotes Scientific Temper: The day promotes the development of a scientific mindset and encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Encourages Youth to Pursue Careers in Science: National Science Day aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers.

She also added that “India has been transformed on many fronts and is ready for take-off”. A massive expansion in social and economic infrastructure through policies and schemes in past years such as Samagra Shiksha and expansion of Universities, IITs, IIMs, Medical and Nursing Colleges, Skilling (Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana), and many more. She explained the importance of healthcare sector, transforming rural india, mobile phone and internet, transportation network, science & technology and dpi, demographic dividend and demonstrated quantum leap capabilities in the development of India in all aspects. She also deliver that the concept and the importance of the standard operating Procedure (SOP) for the young students, and how to follow the same.

The students asked many questions and it was answered by the resource person.

On 27.02.2024 a session on "Inspiring the Engineering students towards innovation and entrepreneurship" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4.30PM. The session was handled by the resource person, Mr. C. Amarsingh Feroz, Associate professor, Dept of ECE, , Francis Xavier Engineering College. 46 students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker, Mr. C. Amarsingh Feroz, Associate professor, Dept of ECE by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The guest speaker explained the concept of innovation and the major role it plays in developing the startups. He gave few examples for the innovations made and the business opportunities available to involve in entrepreneurial activities. He inspired the engineering students towards innovation and entrepreneurship by explaining the importance of involving in developing innovative products. It is imperative to foster a culture of creativity, problem-solving, and risk-taking within academic environments. Incorporating practical, project-based learning experiences and real-world challenges into the curriculum can stimulate students’ entrepreneurial mindset and innovative thinking. Providing access to mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities with successful entrepreneurs and industry leaders can offer invaluable guidance and inspiration. Additionally, organizing workshops, seminars, and competitions focused on innovation and entrepreneurship can further ignite student’s passion and drive to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. By nurturing a supportive ecosystem that encourages experimentation, collaboration, and resilience, engineering students can be empowered to translate their ideas into impactful solutions and ventures, driving positive change in society while fulfilling their entrepreneurial aspirations. Through this program, participants showed keen interest in the concepts, methodologies and gave satisfactory feedback at the end of the session.

On 26.02.2024 Guest Lecture on "Journey of an Entrepreneur: Sharing of Success" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC through offline mode. The session was handled by Mr.Phinehas Rathinam, Alumni of FXDOMS Batch(2014-2016), Managing Director Siragugal Sports & Wear, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM on 26.02.24. 51 students and one faculty participated in the program.

The session started with the welcome address and introduced the guest. The guest speaker began the session with his success story. Then he started to give more innovative ideas for business and mentioned about the consistency in business thoroughly. Consistency is the keystone to success then he explained his entrepreneurial journey. Then he told about struggles he faced during Covid-19 and the steps the he took to overcome from it. He explained about his current venture and what were the strategies he followed to build a loyal customer base. Then he told about current projects of his business and the opportunities in the current business and he gave a detailed report of how to plan a business in our locality. Students shared their ideas and got more positive solution. The session was a useful and motivational session for students.

On 26th February 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on Ethical Entrepreneurship: Building Trust, Sustainability, and Success. The resource person for the program was Dr. Bency P Emmanuel, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 42 civil engineering students and 1 faculty attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

TThe resource person explained the concept of ethical entrepreneurship and the importance of ethical entrepreneurship to succeed in the business venture. She also stated that Ethical entrepreneurs prioritize values such as honesty, fairness, transparency, and social responsibility in their business practices. She mentioned that business ethics are the set of practices and policies that companies use to guide them through decisions about finances, negotiations and deals, corporate social responsibility, and more. Without a strong set of ethics, a business can run a foul of the law, encounter financial pitfalls and moral dilemmas. But good business ethics ensure customers, employees, and other stakeholders that a company obeys the rules and does the right thing.

The resource person also summarizes about four ethical steps to take the entrepreneurial journey. Firstly, Building Trust: Ethical practices help build trust with customers, employees, and another stakeholder. Secondly, Enhancing Reputation: Ethical behaviour enhances a company's reputation, which can attract more customers and business partners. Thirdly, Reducing Risk: Ethical practices can reduce the risk of legal issues, regulatory fines, and damage to reputation that can arise from unethical behaviour. And finally, Positive Impact: Ethical entrepreneurship has a positive impact on society and the environment, contributing to sustainable development and a better future for all.

She also elaborately explained about Fairness: Ethical entrepreneurs treat all stakeholders fairly, ensuring that their actions benefit everyone involved, not just a select few. Open Communication: Ethical entrepreneurs maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders, allowing for feedback, dialogue, and mutual understanding. Respect: Ethical entrepreneurs respect the rights, dignity, and diversity of all stakeholders, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. Long-Term Perspective: Ethical entrepreneurs focus on building long-term relationships with stakeholders, rather than prioritizing short-term gains, which helps build trust over time. The students asked many questions and it was answered by the resource person.

On 26.02.2024 a session on "Empowering Entrepreneurial success through Innovation and design thinking" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The Session was handled by Dr.M.Prem Ananth IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for “Design Thinking and Innovations” Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical and Communication Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced the guest speaker. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the Innovation which is the process of translating creative ideas into practical solutions that deliver value to customers or society. He discussed that Innovative entrepreneurs are individuals who have the capability of creating and bringing innovative products to the market. He also said that the Innovative entrepreneurship can help professionals develop ideas to successfully manage businesses. He said that by understanding this concept it can help you to become a successful entrepreneur. He discussed an inspiring example of innovation and entrepreneurship exemplified by Lily Born and her invention, the Kangaroo Cup. He also discussed the remarkable entrepreneurial journey of a young individual who turned a simple passion for making jams into a thriving business venture. At the age of 14, Doherty embarked on an inspiring journey that exemplifies the essence of entrepreneurship, determination, and innovation. He discussed an exemplary innovation in the field of mosquito control—a mosquito-catching machine developed by students at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) that operates without the use of any chemicals.

The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys.

On 21.2.2024 a guest talk on "The Power of Collaboration: Building Successful Entrepreneurial Partnerships" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs. A. Amala Manuela, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person began with the Introduction to Entrepreneurial Partnerships. She explained the concept of entrepreneurship and its importance in enhancing the economic conditions of a nation. She gave few examples of the successful Indian entrepreneurs who have excelled in their mission. She also explained with example some successful entrepreneurial Partnership like Google and NASA, Apple and IBM, Uber and Spotify etc. She spoke about the challenges of entrepreneurial partnerships, misaligned objectives, integration Complexities. She highlighted the key factors for the successful entrepreneurial partnerships, Clear communication, aligned goals and adaptability. She talked about the benefits of collaboration, sharing of resources and expertise, knowledge exchange and innovative solution. She also explained the process of finding the right partner, identifying complementary skills and values, building trust and communication, and overcoming challenges. Students raised few queries and it was clarified by the resource person with suitable examples.

On 19.02.2024 a Guest Lecture on "Innovation and Creativity: A Key for Entrepreneurial Success” was conducted by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr. V.Anto Joel, Founder CEO-Zenanvibe 1.30 PM – 3.30 PM. 50 students and 1 faculity participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, HoD of the MCA department, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker, explained the concept of entrepreneurship and the opportunities for the students to earn while learn. Guest speaker being the startup founder, shared his experience in starting a startup and his entrepreneurial journey. He gave lot of examples form his own real-life experiences. The speaker gave few profitable business ventures which could be taken up by the students for their entrepreneurial venture. Drawing from personal experiences and industry insights, he showcased the diverse avenues available for aspiring entrepreneurs to explore. Emphasizing the importance of innovation, risk-taking, and resilience, he inspired the audience to seize opportunities and embark on entrepreneurial ventures. The talk served as a catalyst for sparking curiosity and motivation among attendees, encouraging them to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations with confidence and determination.

The guest speaker delivered an engaging presentation on entrepreneurship and its real-life opportunities, shedding light on the dynamic landscape of business innovation. He intricately explored the process of company valuation, providing valuable insights into the calculations involved and the factors influencing a company's worth. With a focus on practical applications, he equipped the students with essential knowledge to navigate the complexities of identifying the right business opportunity and to venture into the business world. The session culminated in an enriching fireside chat, where the speaker engaged in an open dialogue with participants, addressing their queries and sharing personal anecdotes.

On 17th February, 2024 an “Expert Talk on Technology Readiness Level” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 09:30 am to 12.30 pm. Er.M.Nagarajan, Alumni Entrepreneur, Bright CNC Tech, Chennai was the resource person. The program was held via online mode. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

The resource person said that TRL is a method for estimating the maturing of technologies during the acquisition phase. It provides a common understanding and language for tech development. He said TRLs are a scale ranging from 1 to 9, representing different stages of technology maturity and also TRL assess critical aspects of a technology, including functionality, performance & integration capabilities. The talk elaborated on each TRL from TRL 1 where basic principles are observed, to TRL 9, where the technology is proven through successful mission operations. Additionally examples were provided to illustrate each TRL stage and its characteristics. Next he discussed about the importance of TRLs, it serves as a crucial tool for risk management, resource allocation & decision making in technology development projects. The talk highlighted various applications of TRLs across industries, including aerospace, defense, energy & healthcare. Examples were discussed, showcasing how TRLs are used in research & development, funding allocation, technology transfer & regulatory compliance. Finally best practices for implementing TRLs were discussed, emphasizing the importance of setting clear milestones, engaging stakeholders & adapting the framework to specific project needs and also challenges such as subjective interpolation of TRLs, lack of standardized methodologies & difficulties in transition b/w TRL stages were discussed

On 16.02.2024 a session on "Exploring Innovative Ideas in AI " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –12.30PM. The session was handled by the Student Startup Founder, Mr.T.A.Gladston Akash Raja ,III AIDS Francis Xavier Engineering College. Sixty seven students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mr.T.A.Gladston Akash Raja ,III AIDS by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The resource person explained the innovative ideas in AI and the innovative business ideas and opportunities available. He also addressed about the significance of AI in various fields by citing various examples. Exploring innovative ideas in AI involves a multifaceted approach that integrates cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Researchers are delving into areas such as deep learning, reinforcement learning, and generative adversarial networks to push the boundaries of what AI can achieve. Moreover, the fusion of AI with other emerging technologies like blockchain, quantum computing, and biotechnology opens up new avenues for exploration. Ethical considerations, transparency, and responsible AI deployment are also at the forefront, driving discussions on fairness, accountability, and the societal impacts of AI systems. Collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and policymakers are essential to foster an ecosystem conducive to innovation, ensuring that AI continues to evolve in humanity while mitigating potential risks that benefit. Students interacted freely with the resource person and clarified all their doubts.

On 16.02.2024 a session on "Workshop on building a culture of innovation through design thinking" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. T.C.Subbulakshmi, Professor - Department of Information Technology Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM-4.00 PM. 53 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The Guest speaker gave an insightful session that combines academic rigor with practical application. Given her expertise, she approached the workshop with a structured yet flexible agenda that allows for immersive learning experiences. She delves into the intricacies of design thinking a human-centered approach to innovation that integrates the needs of people, the potential of technology, and the requirements for business success. She guided the participants through the five stages of design thinking: Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. Her approach was not just about imparting knowledge; it's about instilling a mindset. The conversation then shifted towards the focus on how organizations can embed this approach into their culture, encouraging a shift towards a more empathetic, collaborative, and experimentative ethos. Her sessions were meticulously designed to ensure participants leave not just with a deep understanding of design thinking principles but with actionable strategies to implement these principles, fostering an innovative culture within their own organizations. Her talks were not just lectures but conversations that sparked ideas, ignited passions, and encouraged the next generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with conviction and courage.

On 9.02.2024 a talk on " Sharing of Entrepreneurial Experiences" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. R. Anton Brijith, Proprietor, MM HI - TECH INDUSTRIES from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. N. V Selvam, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He introduced the alumni resource person by Mr. R. Anton Brijith, Proprietor, MM HI - TECH INDUSTRIES. The guest speaker started the speech by addressed the gathering and spoke about entrepreneurship, Risk taking, planning and technology transfer. He also encouraged the students to dedicate their time to improve technical knowledge and Skill. He explored some startup opportunities for Electrical Engineers. He also explained his services in the field of Power distribution and transmission. He motivated the students by giving lot of business opportunities opened to the engineering students and asked the students to choose entrepreneurship as the career choice. Students interacted with the guest speaker and clarified their doubts. Students were also discussed their innovative business ideas. The interaction between the students and the guest speaker was encouraging and motivated all the participants to gather more information about entrepreneurship and the business opportunities available to them.

On 09.02.2024 a Workshop on "Concentrating on the importance of Adaptive Thinking and Ability in Business" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. M. Caroline Viola Stella Mary, ERP Head, Professor - Department of Information Technology Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM-4.00 PM. 48 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr. F. Richard Singh Samuel AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The Guest speaker Dr. M. Caroline Viola Stella Mary set the stage with a compelling narrative on the power of innovation in driving business success. She delved into the heart of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of vision, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace failure as a stepping stone to greatness. She discusses the critical role of customer-centric thinking and explored the concept of building a product or service not just with the customer in mind but with the customer at the center of every decision. This session was rich with examples of how successful startups listened to their customers, adapted their offerings, and in doing so, carved out niches in crowded markets.

The conversation then was shifted towards the technological front; she highlighted how emerging technologies can be leveraged to disrupt traditional industries. She provided a fascinating overview of how artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other digital innovations are shaping the future of business. She challenged attendees to think beyond profits and consider how their ventures could address societal issues "Concentrating of the Importance of Adaptive Thinking and Ability in Business" was an invigorating event. Her talks were not just lectures but conversations that sparked ideas, ignited passions, and encouraged the next generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with conviction and courage.

From 6.2.2024 to 10.2.2024 Management Development Program on “Business Development Plan for Micro Small Medium Enterprise” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies department and IIC of Francis Xavier Engineering College in association with Branch MSME-DFO Government of India, Ministry o MSME ,Tirunelveli through offline mode. 40 Micro entrepreneurs from nearby areas participated in the program. The resource persons were Industrialists and Academician. The program was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from From 6.2.2024 to 10.2.2024 between 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. 40 participants participated.

In the inaugural session after the welcome address, the principal of the college and EDC Director and IIC president highlighted the significant role of college in promoting entrepreneurship to the students community during their presidential address and facilitation address. First session started after the inaugural session and the resource person was Mr.Mohammed Riaz, Business Coach, Action COACH Global. He delivered his speech on the title “Developing a positive workplace culture in small business”. He started his speech by telling his experience in starting his own venture and the opportunities in his locality to start the business. Then he continued his speech by listing attributes essential to develop a positive workplace culture like Integrity, Treating people in the work area, dedication, commitment and involvement by real time examples. After the lunch break, second session was started by the resource person Mr.P.Selvakumar Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. on the title “ Product Selection for starting a business”. In his session, he highlighted Market Research, Competitor analysis, Trends and innovation in order to identify the product selection. After the tea Break, Mr.Sadaiappan Startup owner and mentor delivered Business Plan Preparation . In his speech he addressed various elements in preparing business plan such as goals, analysis, work strategy, competitor, operations and marketing, SWOT, Mission, Financial, Timeline and Product Description. Then he segmented the participants and clubbed into teams based on their venture. He asked the participants to develop the business plan and participants presented their business plan.

In the second day, Mr.Selvakumar Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. started the session and delivered his speech on “Trade fairs as a platform for marketing. In his presentation he explained about marketing, how to balance emotions, trust and status in the business. He also explained about trade fairs and various types of trade fairs. After the tea break, He asked participants to exhibit their business by considering this platform as trade fair. Participants showcased their ideas and the resource person gave suggestions based on their presentations. After the lunch break, Customer Relationship Management was handled by Mrs.M.Thanalkshmi. Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. She explained about the concept of customer, role of customer management, objectives of customer relationship management, key components of CRM such as customer data management, Sales Automation, Marketing Automation, Customer Service and analytics. She explained how to build customer relationship. She randomly chosen few participants and made them to share their experience in maintaining customers. After the tea break, Market Analysis and Research for SMEs was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha. Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started her session by explaining the companies who failed in their business due to poor market analysis and research. She continued her session by explaining the importance of doing market research. She presented the components of market analysis such as customer analysis, demand analysis, competitor analysis, market trend analysis, risk analysis, marketing and advertising analysis. The session day session was concluded with clarification of doubts of participants.

The Third day session was started by Mrs.J Evangeline Kiruba Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. on the title E-Commerce. She started her session by posting a question that how many of the participants were doing business by making of e-commerce modes and very few were replied yes. Then she started explaining about what is e-commerce, various forms of e-commerce. She continued her session by presenting the challenges in this mode and how to do money transaction. She also added the safest e-transaction. After the tea break, Mrs.M.Thanalkshmi Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. gave insights in the area “ Access to funding for MSME by bankers. She explained about the MSME Loan schemes by Banks. She also explained interest rates for various schemes of banks. For opting the loan what are the requisites was also presented by her. Top banks schemes related to MSME and their interest rate also presented. After the lunch break, the session was handled by Mr.Kaja Mohideen Founder and CEO of Digicuz on the topic digital marketing for SMEs. He insisted the importance of digital marketing in promoting the business. He explained how marketing can be done for any product through digital mode. He also presented how the optimization was done in web pages to improve product sales. After the tea break, Introduction to Export Import Marketing was handled by Mr.P. Selva Sundarrajan, Aadhithya Training & Consultant. He started his presentation by telling about the basics of Import and Export. He continued his session by explaining the marketing techniques need to be handled during import and export of products with real time examples. The session ended with the vote of thanks.

The fourth day session started with the topic “Introduction to 7ps framework and importance of customer centric approach. It was handled by Dr.Jeshrun Bala Subramanian Associate Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started presenting the marketing framework such product, price, place, promotion, process, physical evidence, people. He asked the participants to design marketing framework for their products and all participants presented their framework. After the presentation of participants, resource person suggested few ideas to improve their business. In the afternoon session, Mr.Murugan, Branch Manager , TIIC delivered the lecture on the role of MSME on marketing support. He started his session by posting a question that how many of the participants were benefitted from the financial assistance of MSME. Only few participants got awareness and very few received financial benefits from MSME. Then he continued his session by listing various schemes of Government in supporting SMEs to commercialize their products. He also explained whom to approach, guidelines to avail benefits. Last session was about Sales Management via Distribution & Dealership and it was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha Assistant Professor/Management Studies of Francis Xavier Engineering College. She gave insights about the essential skills to sell the product and criteria to choose distribution network by quoting real time examples. The session was ended after clarifying doubts of participants.

The fifth day of the management development program was started with the area of Financial Management for SMEs: Cash Flow into business and it was handled by Mrs. Annie Rose Nirmala Head of Management Studies department of Francis Xavier Engineering College. She divided participants into various groups and asked them to prepare financial plan, budget for their business. The she explained the importance of financial plan, how to predict risk, cash flow management. The next session was handled by Mrs.Jerina Bobby, Assistant Director, MSME on Procurement and Marketing Assistance. She explained fundamentals of procurement, various sources of procurements. She also gave insights about the role of MSME in assisting entrepreneurs in terms of procurement, market identification, market assistance and distribution. Final session was handled by Mr.Sanjay Gunasingh, Managing Director Bell Pins, Tirunelveli on the topic Brand creation. He started his session by giving the importance of brand of any business. He explained how brand selection can made and it has its effect on sales. He presented lot of strategies to choose and popularize brand of the business. The five days program was ended with valedictory session and vote of thanks. The participants gave feedback about the program. The interaction between the participants and the resource person was highly motivating to all the Participants.

On 5th February 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized a seminar on Urban Planning Eco-System & Global Sustainability. The resource person for the program was Prof. Hugh Barton, Emeritus Professor, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom and Special Advisor, World Health Organization. Dr. S. Cletus Babu, Founder Chairman – SCAD Group of Institution, also made his presence for the seminar. The session was coordinated by the Department of civil engineering, FXEC. 41 participants attended the seminar.

The resource person stated that the strategies for creating resilient and sustainable cities that can mitigate the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change. The seminar explored innovative approaches for designing and implementing sustainable infrastructure, including green buildings, renewable energy systems, and efficient transportation networks.

The resource person also summarizes about the importance of entrepreneurship and its role in the economical development of the society. By incorporating entrepreneurship into economic development the national as well as global development could be achieved. The knowledge and the experiences gained by him in the socio-economic development was shared to the participants. And he added that Entrepreneurship is a driving force behind economic development, fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving wealth creation. By supporting entrepreneurship through policies, education, and access to resources, societies can unlock its full potential to drive sustainable growth and prosperity.

He emphasized that the Entrepreneurship can have significant social impact, addressing societal challenges through innovative solutions. Social entrepreneurship, in particular, focuses on creating businesses with a dual mission of profit and social good. Finally, he added that entrepreneurship requires a supportive ecosystem comprising access to capital, a conducive regulatory environment, access to markets and talent, education and skills development, an innovation ecosystem, a risk-taking culture, supportive networks, infrastructure development, and government policies and support. These requirements collectively contribute to fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic development.

On 01.02.2024 a session on " Transforming Ideas into a Business Opportunity" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mr.P.SelvaKumar, Assistant Professor, Master of Business Administration, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai, from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 46 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced guest speaker Mr.P.SelvaKumar, Assistant Professor, Master of Business Administration, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship, the ability to transform innovative ideas into viable business opportunities is crucial for success. He clarified the concept of a business opportunity and its significance in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He also highlighted the role of creativity and innovation in identifying and developing business opportunities. He discussed the methodologies for generating innovative ideas. To illustrate the concepts discussed, the session incorporated real-world examples of successful businesses that transformed innovative ideas into thriving ventures. He discussed about Hot Breads Mahadevan which was a bakery chain that revolutionized the traditional bakery concept with a focus on freshness and quality. He explained that the business of Mahadevan transformed the simple idea of a bakery into a successful chain by introducing unique and diverse baked goods. As a another real-world example he also discussed about Chai Sutta Bar which emerged as a popular chain specializing in serving a variety of tea blends in a vibrant and trendy environment. This innovation attracted a wider audience and set them apart in the market. He concluded the session by discussing that the transforming ideas into business opportunities are a multifaceted process that requires creativity, strategic thinking, and thorough planning. By understanding the intricacies of idea generation, opportunity evaluation, business model development, and risk mitigation, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of building sustainable and successful ventures.

The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys.

On 01.02.2024 a Workshop on "Entrepreneurial Opportunity through SEO” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department from 9.30 AM to 12.30 PM. The session was handled by Mr.Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu, CEO and Founding Partner Zenanvibe and Inseatfood Pvt Ltd, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 41 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr R Prem Ananth, he welcomes the guest speaker. He said through his company Zenan Vibe he is providing paid internship to our college students for developing Website, ERP System and Google optimization. The guest speaker started the session by defining the word passive income, he said Passive income refers to the earnings generated from assets, ventures, or projects in which an individual has limited active involvement or requires minimal effort to maintain. He stressed the word limited active involvement and said that to earn money with limit involvement Search Engine Optimization (SEO) one way. He also explained the importance of SEO. He said now a days people their requirement in internet, So for every business SEO is required to promote and to increase the number of orders. As an entrepreneur, if he can able to optimize his business by placing proper key words, Meta words and Tag words he can promote his business. As common person if he had the skill of Search Engine Optimization, he can start a new business by optimizing other business for money. He said there are various types of SEO, each focusing on different aspects of optimizing a website for search engines, but he highlighted few important SEO. They were On-Page SEO, Off-Page SEO, Technical SEO, Local SEO, E-commerce SEO and Enterprise SEO. Under on-page SEO he said Content Optimization: Creating high-quality, relevant, and valuable content with proper keyword usage, Title Tags and Meta Descriptions: Optimizing HTML tags to accurately represent page content in search results and Header Tags: Proper use of header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) to structure content and emphasize key points. In Local SEO he said Local Listings: Optimizing business listings on platforms like Google My Business for local search visibility and Local Citations: Ensuring consistent business information across online directories to improve local search rankings. Similarly, he explained all the types of SEO. As a hands on session he divided the students in to 10 groups, with 4 students each. He had given 10 different topics like textile industry, Software industry, Education Institution etc. and make the students to explore the key words they were using to promote the business. He also taught few key to improve the visibility of a particular business in internet. He concluded the session by listing his client and the amount paid by the client for each optimization.

On 31.01.2024 a session on "Funding Opportunities for Early Stage Entrepreneurs " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person, Ms.Agnes Joshy, AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Fourty students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker, Ms.AgnesJoshy AP/IT, by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. Resource person explained various sources of funding, such as grants, angel investment, venture capital fund, and government schemes. The resource person highlighted the various government schemes such as NEEDS, PMEGP, UYEGP, PM Mudra and Startup India. She gave explanation for all the government schemes and asked the students to go through the government websites to collect more information about the various schemes and make use of the same for the purpose of starting a business establishment. She also highlighted the subsidies available under each schemes. In addition to this the speaker explained the support provided by the Government of Tamil Nadu for the development of entrepreneurship in the state. In this category she explained the role DICs, EDII TN, MSME which are providing support to the entrepreneurs to start the concern. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore multiple avenues based on their specific needs and industry focus. At the end of the session feedback link was shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 31st January 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert talk on Engineerpreneurship Unleashed: A journey from ideas to impact. The resource person for the program was Mr. M. Praveen, IV Year CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Founder and CEO-Iris Glass, Tirunelveli. 44 civil engineering students and 1 faculty attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person stated that how to transform ideas into viable ventures and navigating the complexities of business ownership. He also mentioned that in a rapidly evolving technological world, the importance of nurturing young talent cannot be underestimated. Encouraging young engineers to embrace their creativity and embark on entrepreneurial ventures not only strengthens the industry but also fosters innovation and drives economic growth. The resource person also summarizes about the important of education and its pivotal role in empowering the next generation of engineers to take the entrepreneurial leap. By incorporating entrepreneurship into technical education curriculums, we can equip students with the mindset and skill set required to carve their own path in the industry. The knowledge and the experiences gained by him in the development of Iris glass were also shared by the resource person. Some key points worth exploring include:

• Hands-on learning: Providing practical experiences and real-world projects gives young engineers the confidence to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
• Business fundamentals: Teaching the basics of finance, marketing, and business strategy helps young entrepreneurs understand the commercial aspects of their innovations.
• Mentorship programs: Pairing aspiring engineers with successful industry professionals creates a valuable support network and fosters an entrepreneurial mindset.

The students asked many questions and it was answered by the resource person.

On 31.01.2024 a Workshop on "Startup Sprint: Igniting Business Brilliance" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr.Vinukumar Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2.00 PM-4.00 PM . 39 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The Guest speaker Dr Vinukumar set the stage with a compelling narrative on the power of innovation in driving business success. He delved into the heart of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of vision, perseverance, and the willingness to embrace failure as a stepping stone to greatness. He discussed the critical role of customer-centric thinking and explored the concept of building a product or service not just with the customer in mind but with the customer at the center of every decision.

His message was clear: understanding and solving real customer problems is the cornerstone of business brilliance. The conversation then shifted towards the technological front, he highlighted how emerging technologies can be leveraged to disrupt traditional industries. He provided a fascinating overview of how artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other digital innovations are shaping the future of business. He challenged attendees to think beyond profits and consider how their ventures could address societal issues "Startup Sprint: Igniting Business Brilliance" was an invigorating event. His talks were not just lectures but conversations that sparked ideas, ignited passions, and encouraged the next generation of entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams with conviction and courage.

On 30.01.2024 a Workshop on Innovation : An Inevitable Requirement for the Budding Engineers was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. Prem Ananth Assistant Professor -Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.00 PM-11.00 PM . 53 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT ,Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person explained the concept of innovation and the role of budding entrepreneurs in developing the innovative products. He emphasized the critical role that innovation plays in shaping the future of engineering and its impact on society. He highlighted that the field of engineering is no longer just about applying established principles and techniques; it now demands a creative and forward-thinking approach to solve complex and ever-changing problems. He continued by explaining that the challenges faced by modern society, such as climate change, resource scarcity, and the need for sustainable development, require engineers to think outside the box. He pointed out that innovation is not just about inventing new technologies, but also about improving existing ones to make them more efficient, affordable, and accessible. Moreover, he touched upon the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in fostering innovation. They noted that today's engineering challenges are so complex that they often require knowledge and expertise from multiple fields. Therefore, budding engineers must be willing to collaborate with professionals from other disciplines, such as science, business, and the arts, to develop holistic and effective solutions. He reiterated that innovation is not just a desirable quality in budding engineers; it is a necessity. They encouraged the audience to be curious, open-minded, and persistent in their pursuit of innovative solutions

On 30th January, 2024 a guest lecture on “Entrepreneurial Skills: A Key to Success” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and 1 faculty member participated in the program. Mr.S.Rakesh, AP/MECH coordinated the session.

The resource person explained the concept of entrepreneurship and the role of entrepreneurs in the economic development of a nation. He gave number of examples regarding the successful Indian entrepreneurs. He also explained the skills which are essentials to run the concern effectively such as proactive mindset, risk management and resource optimization. Then he discussed about the key components of entrepreneurial skills such as motivation, adaptability and creative thinking. After that he revealed about the successful entrepreneurs in the world market like Elon Musk, Oprah Winfrey & Jeff Bezos. For example, elon musk known for this ventures in Tesla, SpaceX and numerous other groundbreaking initiatives. He deliberated about the major elements such as innovation, independence and resilience. Mentorship, ongoing learning and networking are the major ways to enhance entrepreneurial skill and he told about the challenges in developing entrepreneurial skill such as risk management, market competition and financial uncertainty. Finally, he concluded the session with the role of entrepreneurial skill in achieving success such as innovation and growth, global impact and personal empowerment.

On 29th January 2024, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on “Intellectual Property Rights”. The resource person for the program was Dr. M. Kannan, Associate Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 44 civil engineering Students and 1 faculty attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The speaker stated that Intellectual Property Rights plays a crucial role in fostering innovations and protecting the creations of human intellect. The speaker elaborated the various forms of legal protection which includes patents that safeguards inventions and technological advancements; trademarks that protects distinctive symbols, names, logos that identifies products or services; copyrights that secures original literary, artistic and musical works; trade secrets that safeguards confidential business information; industrial designs that protects the visual design of the objects.

He made a note that similar to tangible property IP can be bought, sold, licensed and protected under legal frameworks. It also safeguards and commercializes intangible assets contributing to economic growth and technological advancements. The innovation filing process was also discussed with the students. The application process involves submitting comprehensive documentation, undergoing examination and ultimately obtaining legal recognition and protection for the intellectual creations.

On 18.01.2024 a session on "Inspiring the Engineering Students towards Innovation and Startup " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person, Dr.Jainul fathima,AP/IT,FXEC, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Forty five students from first year AI&DS-A and one faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor,Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Dr.Jainul fathima,Ap/IT, by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The speaker explained the concept of startup and the need to focus on the importance of innovation among the students. The speaker shared her personal experiences in innovation and motivated the students to develop innovative products addressing the problems in the social domine. She also gave lot of examples for the prospective innovative products for which demand exists in the market. She also outlined a holistic strategy to encourage creativity, critical thinking, and the development of a startup mindset within the engineering education system. By fostering these qualities, one can aim to empower the next generation of engineers to become not just problem solvers but innovators and successful entrepreneurs. This century demands a shift in the traditional approach to engineering education. Beyond mastering technical skills, students must be equipped with the ability to identify problems, envision solutions, and navigate the complexities of the entrepreneurial landscape.

The speaker emphasised the focus on creating an environment that encourages innovation and startup culture among engineering students. Inspiring engineering students towards innovation and startups requires a multifaceted approach that integrates curriculum changes, extracurricular activities, industry collaborations, and support systems. By implementing this comprehensive strategy, educational institutions can play a pivotal role in shaping the future generation of engineers, instilling in them the mindset and skills necessary for success in the ever-evolving technological landscape. At the end of the session feedback link shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 12.1.2024 a seminar on "Arise, Awake and Realise the power you hold" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering to commemorate the National Youth Day. The session was handled by Mrs.Mariammal, Assistant Professor,Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM - 4.00 PM. 60 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker said the phrase "Arise, awake, and realise the power you hold" encapsulates a compelling message that resonates not only as a motivational mantra but also as a guiding principle. To awaken to their innate potential and approach their work with a sense of purpose and confidence.

This directive encourages individuals to rise above mundane details and mundane communication, embracing the power of their words to convey information persuasively. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the influence that well-crafted reports can have on decision-makers, stakeholders, and the broader audience. By awakening this potential, one can prompted to tap into their creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills to produce reports that not only inform but also inspire and engage.

Students shared their views about the power of the youth which needs to be tapped appropriately to elevate the potentials to scale new heights.

On 12.01.2024 a Talk on " Sustaining Startups: Strategies to Move Forward " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.N Hemalatha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 9.30 PM – 12.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The internal resource person Dr.N. Hemalatha started the speech by addressing the concept of entrepreneurship, strategic planning, adaptability, and resilience. She also encourages the students dedicating their time to inventing something new and bringing it to market in order to effect worthwhile social change. She explored about Market Research, Viable Product Idea, Assembling the Right Team, Creating the healthy working environment, Meeting Customer Expectations. She also explained the Strategic Planning like Risk Mitigation, Resource Optimization, Flexibility, Progress Measurement. She explained Customer Relationship Strengthening, Feedback Collection and Improvement. She also listed some of the startups in Tamil Nadu and also shared the success story of the entrepreneur.

On 12.01.2024 Guest Lecture on "Navigating Entrepreneurial Frontiers Opportunities and Challenges in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin Business Landscape" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC through offline mode in association with Department of Management Studies. The session was handled by Mrs.M.Thanalakshmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm on 12.01.2024, 54 students and one faculty participated.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person started her session by asking students to list top business in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin. Students listed familiar business in these locations. And she moved her session by listing few business problems which are not addressed in these locations. Through presenting those problems she highlighted entrepreneurial opportunities in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin Landscape for the MBA students and encouraged the students to make use of those opportunities. She continued her presentation and gave more insights about the opportunities available in Tirunelveli and Tuticorin sub urban area. She further gave opportunities like Tourism, Trekking in these locations.

She continued her session by giving information about organic farming in China and Iran and Food processing methods using lemon, coconut and how to convert it into business opportunities in local market. The session further continued about the Franchise in Indian Market and into local market. She gave an example of Ibaco franchise. Students came to know about new method in sustainability which is upcycling of products. She presented the upcycling products like Bag made of jeans, chair made of Tyre and sofa made of water barrels. After the tea break she continued her session by listing few challenges faced by entrepreneurs in local market – Financing, lack of planning, hiring the right labour were explained . She also gave the insights in sustainable opportunities such as upcycling, recycling, organic and green environment. She concluded her session by motivating students to become entrepreneurs and to develop our locality. A session was ended with feedback and vote of thanks by Aarthi Subha, student of I MBA.

On 30th December, 2023 an expert talk on “Design Thinking for Problem Solution Fit” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Dr.J.Sangili Muthukumar, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

The resource person explained the design thinking concept in a detail manner with live examples. He also explained the process of design thinking giving a suitable examples. Resource person said that the design thinking concept can be used effectively to solve the critical problems. The expert talk stressed the importance of incorporating user feedback into the design process. By involving end-users early and often, teams can refine and iterate upon their solutions effectively. This user-centric approach ensures that the final solution is well-aligned with the user’s needs and expectations. The session featured real-world case studies and success stories that showcased the effective application of design thinking in diverse industries. These examples provided concrete illustrations of how organizations have achieved problem-solution fit through adopting a design thinking mindset. Students learned how a well-defined problem statement is essential for guiding the ideation and solution development phases. Students gained insights into rapidly building prototypes to gather feedback and refine solutions. Finally students left the session equipped with practical tools, techniques and a renewed perspective on problem-solving, fostering innovation and user satisfaction.

On 29.12.2023 a seminar on "Expert talk on Technology Readiness Level and Innovation" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs.Mariammal, Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM - 4.00 PM. 59 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The session focused on the innovation development and understanding technology readiness level. The speaker explained the TRL framework, elucidating its various stages from basic research to full deployment. Her discussion emphasized the pivotal role TRL plays in assessing the maturity and viability of innovative technologies, offering attendees valuable insights into how this metric aids decision-making processes. The speakers illustrated the importance of aligning innovation efforts with organizational goals and strategic objectives through the systematic evaluation of TRL. Real-world case studies and examples were presented; showcasing instances where TRL assessments significantly influenced project outcomes and resource allocation. Overall, the expert talk provided a comprehensive and practical perspective on navigating the complexities of innovation through the lens of Technology Readiness Level.

On 29.12.2023 a talk on " Cultivating Creativity and Business Acumen the Key for Entrepreneurship" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs. M. Subashini, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 43 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person explained the significance of Creativity and Business Acumen. She highlighted some successful entrepreneurs like Elon mask, Steve jobs, R. G. Chandramogan etc. She said that for the successful running of the business the entrepreneur must use creativity and innovation. She also highlighted developing a strong business plan, networking and collaboration. She talked about the risk-taking and resilience, market shifts adaptability, developing a growth mindset and analysing failures objectively which can help the entrepreneur to move to the next level.

On 29.12.2023 a Workshop on "Venture Visionaries: Nurturing Entrepreneurial Skills and Mindset" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mr. Akash Assistant Professor Department of English , Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM-4.00 PM . 43 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT ,Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker explained the concept of entrepreneurship with live examples. He highlighted the significance of cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit in today's dynamic business landscape. He also emphasized fostering an entrepreneurial mindset that goes beyond business acumen. He drew attention of the participants emphasized the importance of cultivating traits such as curiosity, risk-taking, and a growth mindset. Students were encouraged to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success and to view challenges as opportunities for innovation and improvement. The seminar provided a comprehensive and enriching experience for students, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary to embark on successful entrepreneurial endeavours.

The students interacted with the resource person and gathered more information about entrepreneurship and the need for practicing entrepreneurship to scale up the economic development.

On 29th Dec 2023 the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Master of Computer Applications organized an expert talk on “Entrepreneurial Opportunities in Artificial Intelligence” from 10.00 to 12.30 p.m. Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Applications was the resource person. 57 students and one faculty member participated in the program.

The guest speaker highlighted the burgeoning trend of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing, particularly focusing on its potential applications in various business systems. She emphasized the integration of AI-driven products in marketing strategies, envisioning a future where robots play pivotal roles across industries. Through her discourse, she elucidated several examples, illustrating the diverse ways in which AI is revolutionizing entrepreneurship.

One prominent example discussed was the proliferation of AI-powered food delivery applications. These platforms leverage advanced algorithms to optimize delivery routes, enhance customer experience through personalized recommendations, and streamline operational processes. The speaker underscored how such AI-driven solutions not only improve efficiency but also cater to evolving consumer preferences, thereby fostering entrepreneurial growth in the food industry.

Furthermore, the speaker elucidated AI's significant impact on the medical field, citing innovative applications tailored for healthcare entrepreneurs. She emphasized the development of AI-driven diagnostic tools capable of analyzing vast amounts of medical data with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency. These tools not only aid healthcare professionals in diagnosis and treatment but also facilitate preventive care measures, ultimately improving patient outcomes and revolutionizing the entrepreneurial landscape within healthcare.

The speaker's discourse illuminated the transformative potential of AI in entrepreneurship, transcending traditional boundaries and catalyzing innovation across diverse sectors. By harnessing AI-driven solutions, entrepreneurs can unlock new opportunities, optimize business processes, and meet the evolving demands of the modern market landscape. As businesses continue to embrace AI technologies, the future holds immense promise for those willing to adapt and leverage the power of artificial intelligence in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

On 28.12.2023 a session on "Expert Talk on Innovation and Technology Readiness Level " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by Mr. M. Praveen, Student Product Innovator and Startup Founder, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Forty-five students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty member participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor,Department of AI&DS from 9.30AM –12.30PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker. The resource person gave an introduction about innovation and the need for the student’s involvement in the process of innovation. Guest speaker being the product innovator he shared his experiences in the product development stage. Moreover, he gave lot of examples for the new product development using the latest technologies. He explained the opportunities in AI, Machine language and Block Chain technologies. Later he explained the concept of Technology Readiness Level. He said the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) are a type of measurement system used to assess the maturity level of a particular technology. Each technology project is evaluated against the parameters for each technology level and is then assigned a TRL rating based on the projects progress. He explained the 9 stages of technology readiness level. The discussion aimed to explore the significance of TRL in the innovation process, its impact on technological advancements, and strategies for enhancing technology readiness across various industries. He highlighted the critical importance of TRL in determining the feasibility and potential success of technology adoption. He also discussed the diverse industry applications, showcasing how TRL assessments are utilized in aerospace, healthcare, energy, and information technology. Students gained insights into how different sectors leverage TRL to enhance technology adoption and implementation. At the end of the session feedback link shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 28.12.2023 a session on " Discussion on the Skills and Mindset Essential for Entrepreneurs" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mrs.M.Deepa, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 47 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address and introduced the resource person. The guest speaker started the speech by highlighting the significance of a proactive mindset in entrepreneurial endeavors. She discussed the skills that entrepreneurs need to develop for effective business management. She also highlighted the necessity of strong leadership skills, effective communication, and strategic thinking needed for managing the day-to-day activities of the organization. She underlined the setbacks and failures that are inherent in entrepreneurial pursuits and how resilience acts as a driving force for overcoming challenges.

She explained the ability to learn from failures and bounce back stronger to become successful entrepreneurs. She also said that the adaptability is a crucial component of mindset which will decide how successful entrepreneurs view challenges not as stumbling blocks but as opportunities for growth and innovation. The conversation illuminated that how communication serves as a linchpin for building strong relationships, fostering collaboration, and conveying a compelling narrative for the entrepreneurial journey. Participants raised few questions as to how entrepreneurs are continually evolve their skill sets to stay attuned to the rapid pace of technological advancements and shifting market dynamics.

The session was an interactive one and the participants interacted freely with the guest speaker and gathered more information from the speaker.

On 28.12.2023 a Guest Lecture on “Values- led Ventures: Shaping the Future of Ethical Entrepreneurship” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and IIC. The resource person was Ms. Subbulakshmi Muruganandam, Managing Partner, White Consultancy Services, Tirunelveli. The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM on 28.12.23. 40 students and one faculty member participated.

The program coordinator introduced and welcomed the chief guest Ms. Subbulakshmi Muruganandam, Managing Partner, White Consultancy Services, Tirunelveli to handle the session. Then the resource person started to present about the concept of entrepreneurship. She made the students to understand the difference between self-employment and entrepreneurship. She started her presentation about asking who is the ethical entrepreneur either Ratan Tata or Mukesh Ambani. Majority of the students replied by saying Ratan Tata. She explained why Ratan Tata is Viewed as ethical entrepreneur. She continued her speech by highlighting Corporate Social Responsible activities of Rata Tata.

After the tea break she divided the students into groups and asked the students to list out CSR activities of the corporate. Each group has chosen one company and presented the companies CSR activities. Then she moved the session by presenting ethical policies of the corporate and the role of ethical entrepreneurs in promoting those policies. Then she again gave an activity to the students group. Students were asked to choose one industry and gave the name of the company, corporate structure, roles and responsibilities for each position and asked the students to develop the ethical policies of their company. Each team came forward and presented their company policies. Few suggestions were given by the resource person and efforts of students were appreciated. Then she continued her session by presenting ethical entrepreneurial skills.

Then she shared many interesting business ideas with real examples. Through activities she imparted ethical entrepreneurship. The program concluded with the vote of thanks.

On 27.12.2023 Guest Lecture on “Vision to Venture: Nurturing Entrepreneurship Skills” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies Department and IIC. The resource person was Mr. P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai. The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM on 27.12.23. 40 students and one faculty member participated.

The program coordinator welcomed the resource person and introduced the guest speaker. Resource person started the session with the short introduction of Entrepreneurship. He continued the session by posting the question, “How many of you are interested to become entrepreneurs?” Nearly 10 students raised their hands and showed their interest. Then he asked remaining students to give their career goals and the reason for not opting entrepreneurial career. Students gave few reasons such as fear of risk, financial problem, problems in investment and so on. He continued his session by presenting the vision drafting and the importance of vision formulation. He asked students to formulate vision and called few students to present their vision.

He then presented the skills which are required to practice entrepreneurship and to think critically to solve the problems like Adaptability and Flexibility Networking and Relationship building. He also presented the efforts of G20 nations in bridging the skill gaps and skill development and entrepreneurship. After the tea break, she gave few activities to explain entrepreneurship skill in a better way. Students were excited to do the activities. She also shared some inspirational success stories of entrepreneurs such as Myharvest Farms owner Ms.Arachan, Oriental cuisine Pvt Ltd chairman Mr.M.Mahadevan, Chai sutta Bar owners Anubhav Dubey and Anand Nayak. Then she clarified the doubts of the students in vision formulation and skill development. She appreciated and thank the students for the active participation and interaction. The session concluded with the vote of thanks.

On 15.12.2023 a session on " Expert talk on Process of Innovation and Critical Thinking" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mrs.A.Anitha, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced the guest speaker Mrs.A.Anitha, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai .

The guest speaker Mrs.A.Anitha started the speech by presenting an introduction to the concept of innovation and critical thinking. She explained the concept and importance of of innovation and critical thinking. She said that innovation is not merely about groundbreaking inventions but encompasses a mindset that seeks continuous improvement and creative problem-solving. She discussed that cultivating critical thinking skills is essential for individuals to navigate the challenges of the modern world. She explained that Innovation is the process of creating and implementing new ideas, products, or methods that bring about positive change and improve existing solutions. It involves thinking outside the box and challenging the status quo.

In her detailed explanation of the innovation process, the speaker highlighted the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and adaptability. She said that, "Critical thinking” acts as the driving force behind innovation. It enables individuals to analyze situations, question assumptions, and explore unconventional solutions. She explained the importance of critical thinking which enables us to analyze complex problems, identify underlying issues, and develop effective solutions.

The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

On 15.12.2023 a Workshop on " Nurturing Future Entrepreneurs: Need of the Hour” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Ms. SS Dheepthi Assistant Professor -IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM-3.30 PM . 43 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT ,Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the meaning of the term entrepreneur and entrepreneurship and heighted the need for promoting entrepreneurship. She gave lot of examples from the Indian entrepreneurs and explained their drive to succeed in their ventures. As the participants being the engineering students she highlighted the need and necessity for the engineering students to opt entrepreneurship as their career choice. She said that the entrepreneurial spirit needs to be infused in the mindset of the engineering students.

She also said that in today's dynamic and ever-changing business environment, entrepreneurship is not just a career choice; it is a mindset that propels innovation, resilience, and adaptability . Despite the acknowledgment of the importance of entrepreneurship, there remains a gap in integrating practical and experiential learning opportunities within traditional education systems. Additionally, there is a need for increased collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and government bodies to create a comprehensive ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs. She concluded the session by emphasizing the steps to be taken to nurture the future entrepreneurs. The session was an interactive one the students interacted with the resource person and collected more information about entrepreneurship.

As a part of National Pollution Control day, on 14th December 2023, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on “Sustainable Development for a Clean and Healthy Planet”. The resource person for the program was Mr. M. Robinson, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 42 civil engineering Students and 1 faculty member attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person explained the need and importance for sustainable development for a clean and healthy planet. He highlighted the evil effects of pollution in in water, air and in all the aspects where human beings are affected very badly. He said in the name of development the healthy living practices should not be curtailed or damaged. He also emphasised that the integration of economic, social and environmental factors to create a balanced and resilient society. He also explained how an engineer should prepare himself to do the sustainable practices. He also shared the challenges and solutions for the sustainable development and its practices with many examples like climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, drought and water scarcity, resource depletion and deforestation.

The resource person also summarized the five sustainable construction methods such as waste reduction, recycling, energy conservation, green buildings and use of sustainable resources (solar energy, wind energy etc.). He said being the civil engineering students you must try to practice the sustainable practices while planning the construction and while using the materials for the construction. Sustainable development is a pathway between human activities and the earth’s natural systems creating a foundation for a clean and healthy planet. Students interacted with the guest speaker and clarified their doubts.

On 14.12.2023 and 15.12.2023 a workshop was organized on the title a “Design Thinking, Critical thinking and Innovation Design” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The workshop was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 49 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr Pradeep T Rajan, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

Day 1: The speaker started his speech by defining the word Entrepreneur. He defined entrepreneur as a person who starts a new business. He quoted the example of Deepinder Goyal the founder of Zomato as the real-world example of successful innovation come entrepreneur. The speaker asked the students to write some innovative products in pineapple and asked the students to present the products. Most of students were presented pineapple Jam, Pineapple juice, Pineapple cake and pineapple alwa, But the speaker said to the students that these are not innovative products. The speaker shared few products like conversion of pineapple waste to ethanol, extraction of fibre from pineapple leaves to make cloth, bags and tea cup. The speaker said Adhoc innovation, Systematic (structured) innovation, Incremental innovation, Breakthrough innovation and Frugal Innovation were the classification of innovation. He explained each classification with real world examples. The speaker also shared few industrial type innovation, like product innovation, process innovation, customer experience innovation and business model innovation. He compared post office and Professional courier as an example for customer experienced innovation.

Day 2: The speaker started the session by asking a question to the students that what do you meant by Identifying a problem. The speaker asked the students to identify the gap between the features available in the existing products and the new features added in the new product. He highlighted the techniques which can be used for generating the probable solution to address a problem such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or research to come up with good ideas. Later create prototype with best ideas generated by brainstorming. The speaker said design thinking is one of the best approach for problem solving. Design thinking is a type of creative problem solving that focuses on the needs and perspectives of the users. The speaker said design thinking consist of 5 steps, they are Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype and Testing. Empathize: This stage is about researching and understanding the users’ needs, problems, emotions, and motivations. It involves observing, interviewing, and immersing oneself in the users’ context and experiences. Define: This stage is about synthesizing and framing the insights from the empathize stage into a clear and meaningful problem statement. It involves identifying the main challenges and opportunities for the users, and articulating their goals and values. Ideate: This stage is about generating a wide range of possible solutions to the problem statement. It involves brainstorming, challenging assumptions, and exploring different perspectives and angles. The goal is to be creative and divergent, without judging or filtering the ideas. Prototype: This stage is about making low-fidelity versions of the ideas to test their feasibility and desirability. It involves building mock-ups, sketches, models, or scenarios that can be quickly and cheaply made and modified. The goal is to learn by doing and experimenting. Test: This stage is about evaluating and refining the prototypes with the users and other stakeholders. It involves collecting feedback, observing reactions, measuring outcomes, and identifying strengths and weaknesses. The goal is to learn from the users and improve the solutions. Design thinking is a flexible and adaptable approach that can be applied to any domain or industry. It can help you solve complex and ill-defined problems in a human-centric way.

On 14.12.2023 a National Energy Conservation Day Celebration Day Activity "Energy Conservation to Achieve Sustainable Energy Usage" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Dr. A. Selvin Samual, District Environmental Awareness Coordinator, National Green Corps Programme, Department of Environment and climate change, Government of Tamil Nadu, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 47 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr. A. Ravi, HoD, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Mrs. R. Aandal, Assistant professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, FXEC introduced the resource person.

The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the need for conserving energy and the steps to be taken to reduce the energy consumption. He also underlined the need to conserve the natural resources at the time of generating the energy by using the natural resources depletion. He gave few examples for the generation of electricity using the green energy resources like solar power. He spoke about the urgent need for clean energy, reducing the environmental pollution, global warming and climate change. He emphasised the need to sustain the energy resources at the time of scaling up the developmental activities of a nation. He also described sustainable energy generation technologies and cost benefit associated with the conservation. The participants raised few questions which were explained by the resource person with suitable examples. The interaction between the participants and the resource person was encouraging and participants benefited a lot.

On 14.12.2023 a Guest Lecture on " Exploring Fusion of Business Opportunities in Mandala Art and Beyond” was conducted by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mrs .F. Grace Ashmi ( Inpearl Art & Craft), Madurai at 9.30 AM - 12.00 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA.

The proceedings kicked off with the introduction of the guest speaker by Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani, HoD of MCA department. The guest speaker, started her speech by addressing the fundamental aspects of entrepreneurship and why the students must choose entrepreneurship as the career option. She shared insights about her own company's product and explained how to generate and develop ideas for active engagement in the entrepreneurial process. During her presentation, the guest speaker showed number of photos to show the significant role of entrepreneurship. The guest speaker shared her personal experiences regarding the Mandala art business and the challenges faced. She explained the strategies to be followed to earn through mandala art and how to sustain income from mandala arts. The speaker provided ideas for establishing a small art business, imparting valuable insights into the realm of entrepreneurship.

The discussion highlighted the creation of the Mandala art business, encompassing the challenges encountered and the subsequent strides made in revenues from this creative endeavour. The discussion during the session gave a clear insight about the diverse avenues for establishing small art businesses. The students participated in the program enthusiastically and benefitted out of the same.

On 14th December, 2023 an “Expert Talk on Design Thinking & Innovation Design” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Mr.S.M.Sunderrajan, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH inaugurated the session with welcome address.

Resource person explained the meaning of the design thinking and how the design thinking concept helps to solve the problems. The speaker also spoke about the design thinking process which involves empathizing with end-users, defining problems, ideating solutions, prototyping and testing. These stages were elucidated with real-world examples to illustrate their practical applications. Prototyping was presented as a crucial step for quickly testing and refining ideas. The resource person emphasized that this iterative approach minimized the risk of investing resources in concepts that may not meet user needs. The guest speaker gave lot of examples from various industries, showcasing successful applications of design thinking and innovation design. Examples ranged from product design and service delivery to organizational processes. The speaker addressed potential challenges in implementing design thinking, such as resistance to change, time constraints, and the need for a mindset shift. Practical strategies for overcoming these challenges were discussed, emphasizing the long-term benefits of incorporating design thinking into organizational culture. Students sought clarification on specific aspects of design thinking, implementation strategies, and the adaptability of these principles across different industries. The interactive session provided valuable insights and further emphasized the practical applicability of design thinking

On 13.12.2023 a “Workshop on Entrepreneurship Skill Attitude and Behaviour Development” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mr.P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Master of Business Administration, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.30 AM - 4.00 PM. 59 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address and introduction of the guest speaker by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The speaker explained the skills and attitude one must possess to become an entrepreneur and to succeed in his venture. This will help them to develop their skills, competencies and behavior to successfully select and start their own entrepreneurial venture. The resource person covered the following points to make them as a successful future Entrepreneur:

1. Learn from the experience of other entrepreneur: The famous entrepreneurs where they tell how they started their projects and a good entrepreneur must be informed and updated.
2. Positive Mindset: Having a positive and entrepreneurial attitude is essential to achieve the objectives. Having a good positive attitude can help make a personal project come true.
3. Believe in yourself: To be a good entrepreneur, you must believe in your business idea, which will be essential to overcome obstacles and be proactive.
4. Organization and Planning: An entrepreneur knows that part of this organization and planning involves forming a work team and delegating its functions so that the entrepreneur knows what resources he needs and foresees the risks for decision-making.

The queries of the students were very well handled by the speaker. The overall feedback of the workshop was very positive.

On 12.12.2023 a session on Expert Talk on "Entrepreneurship Skills and Attitude" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Mr. P. Selvakumar, AP/MBA AP/AI&DS, Francis Xavier Engineering College. Forty five students from first year AI&DS B and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS from 9.30AM –12.30PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker. The resource person started his speech by explaining the concept of Entrepreneurship and the role of entrepreneurs in the economic development of a nation. He gave live examples in support of the leading Indian entrepreneurs who have succeeded in their venture. He also highlighted their strenuous effort to lift their organisation to the top. He then gave information about the entrepreneurial skills which are very essential to scale new heights such as creativity, adaptability and resilience, communication skills, decision-making and risk-taking and leadership and team building. While explaining the entrepreneurial skills the resource person gave lot of examples. He also explained about the entrepreneurial attitude such as passion and motivation, positive mindset, continuous learning, adopting a customer-centric approach. Students raised few questions which were clarified by the speaker. At the end of the session feedback link was shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 11.12.2023, Shri Narendra Modi launched ‘Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth’ via video conferencing. This program was conducted as MIC driven activity by IIC. The Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth was launched by Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India and addressed the nation in video conferencing. 239 students and 3 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi launched ‘Viksit Bharat @2047: Voice of Youth’ via video conferencing today. During the program, Prime Minister Modi addressed the Vice Chancellors of Universities, Heads of Institutes and faculty members in workshops organized at Raj Bhawans across the country to mark the beginning of this initiative. The Prime Minister began his address by extending a huge thank you to all the Governors for organizing today’s workshop for the development of Viksit Bharat and said that today is a special occasion regarding this resolution. He lauded their contributions of bringing together all the stakeholders who hold the responsibility of guiding the youth of the nation in accomplishing the goal of Viksit Bharat 2047. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the role of educational institutions in the personality development of an individual and said that a nation becomes developed only with the development of its people. Underlining the importance of personality development in the present era, the Prime Minister extended his wishes for the success of the Voice of Youth workshop.

On 8.12.2023 Guest Lecture on " Navigating the Entrepreneurial Journey: From Idea to Implementation" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC through offline mode in association with Department of Management Studies. The session was handled by Ms.M.Kanagalakshmi, , Final year MBA student(Student Entrepreneur), Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM on 08.12.23. 40 students and one faculty participated.

The program started with the welcome address and chief guest introduction by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person started her session by highlighting the entrepreneurial opportunities for the MBA students and encouraged the students to make use of those opportunities. She continued her presentation under the heading of the how the students can implement their idea into start up. She further gave an example of startups India and how that works. One of the example she gave about an application called “Chai Kings” and how they made their idea work.

She continued her session with sharing her own experience in her own start up and how she came up with the idea and what were challenges she faced. She also stated that importance of market research before starting the startup like knowing their target customers and their preferences and complete analysis of the competitors and number of opportunities they have in the industry. She gave us a very insightful thing about scheme like PMEGP scheme, and venture capitalist and angel investors.

The resource person continued the session by giving us road map for startup. From her experience she shared few characteristics of entrepreneur were learning to sell, risk taking, never have self-doubt and good support system. She also gave innovative ideas about starting a startup. Students were excited and they also told her about their startup ideas and got ideas from her. Finally, the resource person concluded the session by appreciating students for their active involvement in the session. The programme was ended with students’ feedback and vote of thanks.

On 06.12.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Process of Innovation and Technology Rediness Level” was organised by Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Dr.R.Prem Ananth ,IIC Convenor, Asst.Professor of Dept.of ECE at FrancisXavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.30 AM - 12.00 PM. 48 students and 1 faculity participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA.

The resource person spoke about the process of Innovation and Technology Readiness Level (TRL). He highlighted the gradual advancement and assessment stages that innovations undergo, emphasizing the importance of gauging a technology's readiness for practical implementation. The speaker elaborated on how TRL measures the maturity of a technology, from its conceptualization in a laboratory to its potential adoption in the market, without specifying particular milestones. The talk provided an overview of the framework's significance in guiding research and development efforts towards successful technological innovations

The speaker gave several examples regarding the Process of Innovation and Technology Readiness Level (TRL). Specifically, he mentioned about Deepinder Goyal, the innovator behind Zomato, highlighting Goyal's journey in initiating and implementing innovative business ideas. He emphasized the significance of starting a business idea and translating innovative concepts into practical applications. Moreover, he touched upon the concept of "breakthrough innovation," which combines invention and impact. He elucidated this by providing examples, illustrating how certain innovations have not only introduced new ideas but have also made a substantial impact on industries or society as a whole. This amalgamation of invention and significant impact, according to the lecture, characterizes breakthrough innovation, underscoring its transformative nature in various spheres

The session addressing the encouragement of students toward tech startups proved to be an invaluable and motivating experience.

On 29.11.2023 a session on “Innovation in the New Emerging Technologies” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Ms.R.Jothjeyashree AP/AI&DS, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 60 students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha. The resource person discussed about latest innovations in emerging technologies and their impact on various industries. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, businesses and individuals are constantly adapting to stay competitive. This report focuses on key areas of innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), 5G, and quantum computing. The convergence of AI, blockchain, IoT, 5G, and quantum computing is reshaping the way businesses operate and deliver services. Staying abreast of these technological developments is crucial for organizations looking to remain competitive and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the ever-evolving digital landscape. As these technologies continue to mature, further breakthroughs are expected, opening new possibilities and transforming the way we live and work. The participants understood innovation in emerging technologies is driving significant advancements across various industries. At the end of the session feedback was collected from the participants.

On 29th November 2023, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on “Strategic Innovative Thinking: Inspiring Vision and Planning for Business Establishment”. The resource person for the program was Er.Vellapandi, M.E, Proprietor, AVP Builders, Tirunelveli. 40 civil engineering students and 1 faculty attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, FXEC.

The resource person started the session addressing the advantages of business establishment for civil engineers. He addressed that for a successful business establishment a great team of knowledgeable and skilled people should be built. Self-confidence and the ability to tackle things also play a major role. Investing money for the business and also training the employees for marketing the business, customer feedbacks, increasing community members and finding suitable vendors in each and every thing also plays a vital role for the success of any business. An entrepreneur should always be adaptable to changes and should never compromise on the quality of work. He also made a note on strategic planning tools and methodologies to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on opportunities. The participants expressed high satisfaction with the program, highlighting the practical relevance of the content and the diverse perspectives shared by guest speakers.

On 29.11.2023 a talk on " Ideation Techniques for Problem Solving " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs. S.Laxmi, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 43 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person began with the importance of problem-solving skills and its intricacies in one’s life and explained what differentiated the successful people from those who failed, and the reason (ignorance to understand problem and its solution). She explained the seven steps to solve problems like Identify the issues, understand everyone’s interests, list the possible solutions, evaluate the options, select an option or options, document the agreement, agree on contingencies, monitoring, and evaluation. She explained competencies which are required to fix the problem that would help the individual to play all his roles successfully, both at personal and professional front. She also explained the steps to solve problem and emphasized that we should not allow the negative thoughts to escalate and in fact deviate and change its directions by thinking of all possible solutions. She talked about the famous game changer personalities and conducted interesting activities to judge student’s ability to handle stress and problems.

On 28.11.2023 a session on " Exploring Innovative Ideas-A Discussion" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mr.M.Praveen, Final year, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai, from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 42 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The guest speaker introduced the concept of innovation, emphasizing its pivotal role in developing startups. By discussing its relevance in various contexts he started the session in exploration of innovative ideas. He conveys the critical importance of innovation in the success of businesses and institutions and discussed the necessity for fostering an innovative mindset to thrive in today's dynamic environment. He discussed the fundamental characteristics that define innovative ideas, emphasizing traits like originality, feasibility, and adaptability. By offering real-world examples, he conveys how innovative ideas have reshaped industries by underlining the transformative power of creative thinking. He discussed the challenges and barriers to innovation by presenting the practical strategies to overcome these hurdles. In discussing the innovation process, he not only presents the stages from ideation to implementation but also conveys the collaborative and experimental nature that underpins successful innovation. Throughout the discussion he discussed the need for fostering a culture of innovation, advocating for environments that encourage creativity, collaboration, and a willingness to take risks.

The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

On 28.11.2023 a seminar on "Motivate to Innovate: A Symphony of Creative Sparks" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs.BagyaLakshmi, Assistant Professor ,Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person said that the innovation and creativity are vital for entrepreneurial success. They enable entrepreneurs to differentiate themselves, respond to market changes, solve problems, drive growth, take risks, attract stakeholders, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Moreover, the creativity and innovation have become the vital point to enhance the value of entrepreneurship. Creativity helps us how to improve existing business practice. Innovation is about making a process that can convert invention or gain idea to become more marketable product or service.

The speaker also said that in any team or organization, some individuals are consistently more likely to come up with ideas that are both novel and useful. These ideas are the seeds of innovation, the intellectual foundation for any new products and services that enable some organizations to gain a competitive advantage over others. The organizations are often unable to put in place the right processes, leadership, and culture to turn creative ideas into actual innovations, which causes even their most creative employees to underperform. Students raised few questions to clarify their doubts which were answered by the guest speaker. The students actively participated in the discussion which created enthusiasm to enrich their understanding about the innovation and the need for involving in the development of the innovative products.

On 28.11.2023 a Workshop on " Business opportunities to earn while learn” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The Session was handled by Ms. AH. Nishan Assistant Professor -IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2PM-4PM . 45 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurial opportunities available to earn while learn in the Information Technology (IT) sector. She also said that the IT sector provides in numerous business opportunities for startups. In recent years freelancing stands as a gateway for individuals to leverage their unique skills on platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.com. Through these avenues can be used by the individuals such as writing, design, programming, and digital marketing. Online education platforms such as Udemy, Skillshare , and Chegg Tutors provide an opportunity for individuals to create and offer courses or tutoring services. By sharing specialized knowledge, individuals not only earn income but also solidify their understanding through teaching and interacting with learners. E-commerce, specifically through drop shipping models facilitated by platforms like Shopify and eBay, offers a low-cost entry into entrepreneurship. This avenue enables individuals to learn about product sourcing, customer relations, and marketing strategies while generating profits without managing inventory. Content creation via blogging, YouTube, podcasts, or social media presents an avenue for individuals to share their expertise and passions.

EDC encourages students to explore and embrace these business opportunities as they offer a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical application, nurturing a well-rounded skill set and entrepreneurial mindset.

On 28th November, 2023 an expert talk on “Problem Solving: A Key for Innovation” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 09:30 am to 04.30 pm. Dr.S.M.Rajkumar, ASP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and 2 faculty members participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

The resource person explored the importance of problem solving in innovation. He said problem solving is the catalyst for innovation, providing the opportunity to identify and overcome obstacles, leading to groundbreaking solutions that push boundaries. Then he discussed about the characteristics of effective problem solvers such as creativity (Effective problem solvers thing outside the box), adaptability (Adaptable problem solvers embrace uncertainty and change) and collaboration (Successful problem solvers understand the power of collaboration). Next he revealed the strategies and techniques for successful problem solving in innovation such as design thinking, brainstorming and root cause analysis. After that he told about the benefits of problem solving in innovation such as creativity boost, collaborative culture and continuous improvement. To motivate the students, resource person shown the real time examples of problem solving leading to innovation such as Apple Inc, Tesla and SpaceX.

Resource person told that nowadays, school students faced lot of ergonomics problems in computer workstation because of work space postures and chair design. From that, students understood the problem and designed the innovative suspension chair especially for school students with effective work space postures using solid works. Finally students left the workshop with a renewed appreciation for the role of problem-solving in driving innovation and a toolkit of strategies to apply in their respective fields.

On 27.11.2023 a session on " Creativity: A Seed Bed for Idea Generation " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC. The session was handled by Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen Director EDC and IIC president Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM- 04.30 PM. 40 students and one faculty participated.

The session started with the welcome address by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person started his speech by highlighting the benefits of being an entrepreneur. He asked students to write any 3 common problems they face in their day-to-day life. Students have written the problems after that he asked them to find out a probable solution to the problems identified. Students started identifying problems and possible solutions and few students voluntarily presented their views. He then continued his session by suggested few entrepreneur websites like keeraikadai.com, ruralbasket.com and government schemes like PMFME for promotion of food processing unit which provide a loan value up to 1 Crore and provide subsidies, NEEDS (New Entrepreneur cum enterprise Development Scheme) provides the financial assistance upto Rs.5 Crore and Credit Guarantee scheme. He also suggested to see the Business Opportunities in the YouTube channel to explore the right opportunity.

Students came forward with their creative business ideas. During the presentation, resource person encouraged and suggested few changes in their ideas. He gave lot of information about the food processing and instant food demand and how the parts of Neem tree and Drumstick tree have been exported and value-added products are used in recent times in Business. It was a thoughtful session. He shared a valuable insight to students

On 17th November, 2023 an expert talk on “Motivating the Budding Engineers to earn while learn” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering at 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm., Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and 2 faculty members participated in the program. Dr.S.Balakrishnan, AP/MECH coordinated the session with welcome address.

The resource person explained the need and importance of entrepreneurship and its role in providing in numerous business opportunities to earn while learn. After that he discussed about the key point to earn while learn.

On 16.11.2023 a session on “Discussion on Problem Solving and Ideation ” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by Mrs.S.Poornam,AP/AI&DS, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 60 students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor,Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mrs.S.Poornam AP/AI&DS, FrancisXavier Engineering College by Mrs. P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS . The resource person said that the problem solving and ideation are integral aspects of decision-making, innovation, and progress in any organization or individual endeavour. The speaker addressed the fundamental concepts and strategies associated with problem solving and ideation, highlighting their role in addressing challenges, generating innovative solutions, and driving continuous improvement. A crucial first step in problem solving is clearly defining the issue at hand. This involves identifying the root cause, understanding its implications, and establishing measurable objectives for resolution.

The resource person said that the effective problem solving requires the application of critical thinking skills. This involves analyzing information, considering alternative perspectives, and making informed decisions based on evidence and logic. A well-established technique, brainstorming encourages the generation of a multitude of ideas in a collaborative setting. This technique facilitates the exploration of relationships and associations between different elements. Effective problem solving and ideation are vital skills for individuals and organizations seeking to navigate an ever-evolving landscape. The participants interacted with the guest speaker and clarified their doubts.

On 15.11.2023 a session on " Startup Opportunities in the Emerging Information Technology Arena" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mrs.M.Yasmin, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai , from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced speaker Mrs.M.Yasmin, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai . The guest speaker started the session by explaining the changes in the technology and the opportunities emerged due to the changes in the technologies. She said that the field of computer engineering offers numerous startup opportunities which was driven by the rapidly evolving technological landscape. She discussed that as computer engineers possess expertise in both hardware and software development they are well-positioned to explore ventures that address emerging challenges and capitalize on technological advancements. She said that one promising avenue is the development of innovative software solutions, such as mobile applications, AI-driven platforms, or cybersecurity tools. She said that another area of opportunity lies in hardware innovations where computer engineers can explore the development of cutting-edge devices, embedded systems, or IoT solutions. She explained the new technologies like block chain and quantum computing also opens doors for novel startups in the field. The speaker said successful startups require collaboration between individuals with diverse skills. Entrepreneurial skills help the engineers to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams. The startup ecosystem for computer engineers is vibrant, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship in the pursuit of addressing modern challenges and shaping the future of technology. She gave a lot of business ideas from the engineering domine and requested the participants to gather more information relating to that on their filed of interest. The engagement between the students and the expert was incredibly inspiring for all attendees. The session concluded with students providing their feedback.

On 15.11.2023 an expert talk on “Emerging Technologies: A new Gateway For Emerging Entrepreneurs” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Mr. V Karthick, Managing Director, The Login Group, Tirunelveli from 10.00 AM-12.00 PM . 55 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT. The guest speaker Mr,V Karthick started the speech by initiating the world of IT entrepreneurship. He gave an overview of the current technological trends and their potential impact on entrepreneurship. Subsequent sessions delved into the specific applications of AI, blockchain, and IoT, highlighting real-world examples of how these technologies are reshaping businesses globally. He emphasized the pivotal role of emerging technologies in providing emerging entrepreneurs with innovative tools to navigate the challenges of the business world. The talk underscored the potential of these technologies to disrupt traditional business models, drive efficiency, and foster a culture of innovation.

The event facilitated valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with like-minded individuals, potential collaborators, and industry professionals. He had the chance to exchange ideas, discuss challenges, and forge meaningful connections that could potentially fuel future collaborations. This event served as a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and empowerment for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Students participated in the program interacted with the guest speaker and gathered more information about emerging technologies and entrepreneurial opportunities.

On 11.11.2023 to Celebrate National Education Day a session was organized on the title “Transforming Education in Line with Current Technology Development” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. G. Rajakumar, Controller of Examinations, IIC Vice President, Professor/ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 49 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr R Prem Ananth, he explained the history of National Education day. On 11 September 2008 the Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) announced the birthday of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad as National Education Day. To commemorate this day 11th November is celebrated as the National Education Day.

The guest speaker started his speech and said that the integration of technology into education is becoming increasingly crucial, providing new opportunities and challenges for educators, students, and policymakers. He said that Governments and educational institutions had invested in robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet access and updated hardware, to ensure widespread access to technology. The speaker said the education policy makers also developed clear and flexible policies that support the integration of technology in education, ensuring a balance between innovation and ethical considerations. He also said that Public and Private Institutions facilitate the development and implementation of cutting-edge educational technologies, fostering innovation and scalability. The speaker said to the students that education systems now a days prioritized and invest in comprehensive teacher training programs that equip educators to integrate technology into their teaching practices. The speaker emphasizes the importance of Digital Learning Platforms, like Online platforms, learning management systems, and virtual classrooms.

On 10th November 2023, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an Expert Talk on “Igniting the Drive to Start and Achieve Success in Business”. The resource person for the program was Er.Antony Clinton, Proprietor, Anon Interiors, Tirunelveli. 52 first and second year Civil Engineering students and 1 staff member attended the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person stated that how an entrepreneur can uplift the society and uplift himself. Also, he said that innovation plays a vital role as the entrepreneur must know how to relate business with the innovative ideas. He also explained how an engineer should prepare himself to become a business man. The resource person explained the need for networking and mentorship in the present scenario and highlighted the emerging opportunities in the business by giving lot of practical examples. He also shared the path way to achieve the key parameters of business through problem statement, ideate, prototype and test through number of practical examples. The resource person also summarizes the ten action phases to build a business plan. The students asked many questions and it was answered by the resource person.

On 09.11.2023 to Celebrate National Entrepreneurship Day a Session was organized on the title a “Pathways to Prosperity: Entrepreneurship Success” by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu, CEO and Founding Partner Zenanvibe and Inseatfood Pvt Ltd, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 59 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr. R Prem Ananth, he welcomed the guest speaker. He said through his company Zenan Vibe he is providing paid internship to our college students for developing Website, ERP System and Google optimization. He also welcomes all the II ECE students and requested the students to be more interactive and make the session more useful.

The guest speaker started the session with an icebreaking session, he requested the students to take a piece of paper and asked the students to fold and cut the edges of the paper. Student actively participated and they come up with different shapes. The speaker said I had given the same command but you students come out with different shapes of paper, in same way all students may have the thought of going to job but there is a great opportunity to become an entrepreneur and prosper in your life. The speaker said that to become a successful entrepreneur Innovation and Creativity are the key. He asked the participants to analyse the social problems with Innovative disruptive ideas to unearth the unique solutions. Which can be converted into business opportunities. The speaker said that the first company Zenanvibe was created to develop website, ERP system and Google optimization. The speaker said that last month he received orders for 1.50 lacs for website, ERP system and Google optimization for the company AUDITOR WORKS. He said to the students that with this experience the second private limited company INSEATFOOD was developed to deliver the food in theatres to their seat. He also requested the students to create LinkedIn account and start build a network.

On 8.11.2023 a Seminar “Empowering the Budding Engineers: The Role of Entrepreneurs in Renewable Energy" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. P. K Ramadaoss, Managing Director, SARK Solar Power System from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 42 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE & Mr. S. Selvakumar

The program started with the welcome address by Dr. A. Ravi, HoD , Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College and introduced the resource person.

The guest speaker started his speech by explaining the need for using the renewable energy resources. He said that the main renewable energy resource is solar. The government is also insisting the people to develop solar system to generate electricity even for the house requirements. In addition to this now a days number of companies have entered in to this sector for the generation of electricity by establishing their solar fields either inside their factory premises to meet their electricity needs. He also explained the Solar Photovoltaic Technology, Types of Solar PV cells, Reliability and Grid Integration. In future the power generation and distribution will emerge as one of the major business activities. In addition to this the government is also encouraging the entrepreneurs to produce the photovoltaic cells which are used in the solar panels. The participants raised few questions to the guest speaker and the speaker gave lot of examples to clarify the doubts.

On 08.11.2023 a guest lecture on “The Art of Launching: Making Startup Dream into Reality” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies department and IIC. The resource person was Mr.M.Anatha Krishnan, Directing Manager of Thoppil Sons Groups, Tenkasi. The session was coordinated by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30PM. 50 students and one faculty member participated.

The resource person started the session with a short introduction of Start up idea . He continued the session by posting question, “How many of you are interested to become entrepreneurs?” Nearly 10 students raised their hands and explained their interest. Then he asked remaining students to explain their career goals and the reason for not opting entrepreneurial career. Students gave few reasons such as fear of risk, financial problem, problems in investment and so on.

He explained the funding opportunities for entrepreneurship, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) provided by the Government. Initiatives like Start up India Initiative, eBiz portal, Software Technology Park were some of the Indian government schemes aimed at promoting entrepreneurship among the youth and other eligible individuals.

He shared his personal entrepreneurial experiences faced during his initial stage and how to overcome those challenges. He motivated the students to convert the opportunity into startup. He also shared how he converted his business idea into startup. He also presented few companies success stories and their struggle in the initial stages. Then he addressed the students who have business ideas and the efforts taken by them to emerge as an entrepreneur. He then continued his session by presenting the challenges of food industry and how he is overcoming those challenges. Students posted few questions regarding the opportunities in food industry in Sourthern part of Tamilnadu.

On 01.11.2023 a “Workshop on Patent Drafting” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the IPR Club. The session was handled by Dr. A. Andrew Roobert, Associate Professor/ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 44 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr P S Suja Pon Mini, professor/ Chemistry and Dr A Amutha, Assistant Professor/Chemistry of Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker being the patent holder of 10 patents he started the speech with the introduction of patent and the rights enjoyed by the patent holder on his patent. The speaker said the primary goal of this workshop is to enhance participants understanding of the patent application process and equipping them with the necessary skills to draft effective and comprehensive patent applications. He defined patent, an exclusive right granted for an invention, which is a product or a process that provides, in general, a new way of doing something, or offers a new technical solution to a problem. He said there are three types of patents: utility, design and plant. Utility and plant patent applications can be provisional and non-provisional. He said the main parts of drafting are title of the invention, field of the invention, background of the invention, object of the invention, summary of the invention, brief description of the drawing, detailed description of the invention, claim(s) and abstract. He explained the way to write each parts with examples. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. The session came to an end with the feedback of the students.

On 31.10.2023 a National Level Technical Innovation Presentation was organized by the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering and IIC in association with the Entrepreneurship Development Cell. The program was organized by Dr Rajee and Dr R Prem Ananth, Assistant Professor of ECE Department of Francis Xavier Engineering College, tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 04.30 PM. 527 students, 164 external participants and 22 faculties participated. This event was conducted with the guidance of Mrs Friska, HoD/ECE and coordinated with all the faculty members of ECE department.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms Epshipa, final ECE student, she welcomed the chief guest Er. D Dervin Mathan, HR, operation Advisor at HP Enterprise Chennai, the principal Dr V Velmurugan and all the staff and students gathered in the occasion. Dr Rajkumar, IIC President in his Presidential address said that in this national level Technical Innovation presentation, out of 123 innovations registered 72 ideas were selected for the presentation.

The guest speaker Er D Dervin Mathew, on his chief guest address he said the person with innovative mind will build the nation’s economy. He said to the students and the participants, that they should develop problem solving skill. He also said building a project or innovation should start from identifying the problem in the society. The speaker said that he believes that a best innovation should solve the real-life problem. He concluded the speech by requesting the participants to convert their innovations to patents and to product that should be commercialized. 72 innovations were divided based on the streams and made to present in three venues. The best innovation was awarded with Memento and Certificates. Along with the innovation presentation, 24 projects were also displayed by the participants.

On 31.10.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Motivating the Students towards Tech Startup" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Ms.Dharshini and Ms.K.Lakshmi Priya, Students Startup Founders (IV Year CSE), Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.15 AM - 12.00 PM. 55 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/ECE.

The event commenced with a warm welcome from Mrs. Angeline Ranjithamani, the Head of the MCA department at Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her opening address, she highlighted the central themes of the program, which revolved around entrepreneurship, startups, innovation. She then proceeded to introduce the student startup founders. The speaker focused on the importance of embracing innovation and fostering a growth mindset. The speaker said that the tech industry is ever-evolving, and it offers lot of opportunities to develop innovative products.

In the second part of the lecture, the speaker shared their personal experiences in launching a tech startup. They emphasized the significance of identifying a problem or need in society that the startup can address. This resonated with the students, as they began to realize that their own ideas and passion for technology could be the foundation of a successful venture. Furthermore, the lecture stressed the significance of teamwork and networking. The speaker underscored that no successful tech startup is built by a single individual but requires a dedicated and diverse team with complementary skills. The speaker also discussed the significance of resilience and adaptability when dealing with the inevitable setbacks and challenges that arise in the startup journey. Students were motivated to persevere through failures and keep their long-term goals in mind. The guest lecture on motivating students towards tech startups was a valuable and inspiring experience. The speaker's personal insights and practical advice left a lasting impact on the students. It not only encouraged the students to consider the entrepreneurial path in the tech industry but also equipped them with essential principles and a mindset required for success.

On 30.10.2023 a Webinar "The future of Entrepreneurship: Trends, Technologies and Opportunities" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The Session was handled by Dr. P. Thamizhazhagen, Dean(i/c), University College of Engineering Tindivanam (A Constituent College Anna University) Melpakkam from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 41 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mary Sumitha, EDC Coordinator of EEE and introduced the guest speaker of the program. The guest speaker started his speech by explaining the rapid technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviours, and evolving global dynamics and the landscape of entrepreneurship. He highlighted the emerging trends and opportunities that are shaping the future of entrepreneurship. He also explained the gig economy, remote work, and flexible arrangements which are becoming increasingly prevalent. Entrepreneurs are tapping into a global talent pool, allowing them to assemble teams with diverse skills regardless of geographical barriers. As the world is connected digitally any time, anywhere and any thing can be done which provides better platform for the entrepreneurs to connect globally and do business. The participants gathered lot of information through the session.

On 28.10.2023 a Guest Lecture on “Role of banks in Entrepreneurship Development” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of the Management Studies department and IIC through offline mode. The resource person was Mr. V. Sankara Narayanan, Branch Head, City Union Bank, Tenkasi. The session was organized by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM. 50 students and two faculty members participated.

The program coordinator welcomed the resource person and introduced the chief guest to the participants. The resource person started the session with the short introduction of Banking Sector Services and the services of City Union Bank. He continued the session by posting the question, “How many of you are interested to become entrepreneurs?” Nearly 10 students raised their hands and showed their interest. Then he asked remaining students to communicate their career goals and the reason for not opting entrepreneurial career. Students gave few reasons such as fear of risk, financial problem, problems in investment and so on.

He presented the funds provided by the banks for the promotion of entrepreneurship, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He said that the UYEGP and PMEGP are two Indian government schemes aimed at promoting self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth. Both the programs are administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in India., and it offers subsidies. Funding schemes vary based on the type of industry, for the service industries Rs.10 lakh, manufacturing sectors with a 25 lakh. NEEDS is yet another scheme which offers funding support up to 5 Crores with subsidy. Students raised few questions to the resource person which were answered by the resource person with lot of examples. The program was an eye opener to most of the participants.

On 27.10.2023 a “Motivational Session by a Successful Start-up Founder” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource Mr.Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu IV-CSE, Start-up founder, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 60 students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant Professor, Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –4PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS. The resource person shared his experience as the startup founder from a struggling entrepreneur to a highly successful start-up founder. He inspired the participants by giving example of successful Indian Startup founders and their achievements. Their inspirational insights shed light on the key ingredients for entrepreneurial success and the mindset required to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. The session aimed to instill a sense of determination, resilience, and innovative mindset among aspiring entrepreneurs. The speaker stressed the necessity of viewing failures as valuable learning experiences. The speaker said that audience to embrace failure as a necessary part of the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing that each setback can serve as a stepping stone towards ultimate success. He highlighted the importance of having a clear vision while remaining adaptable to market dynamics.

The speaker gave lot of information about startups and the process of developing the startup. Moreover, this he gave examples from Tamil Nadu and inspires the students to involve in innovation and converting the innovative products into startups. The resource person being the startup founder he information about what to do and what not to do while trying to develop startup. In fact the session went on well and all the participants benefited by the information shared by the speaker.

On 27th October 2023, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized an expert talk on “Exploring Entrepreneurship as a Viable Long Term Solution to Unemployment”. The resource person for the program was Dr.M.Renisha, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering, Tirunelveli. 40 first year civil engineering students and 1 faculty participated in the program. The session was coordinated by Mrs.P.Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person started the session by saying that “Unemployment remains a persistent challenge around the world". One promising solution is entrepreneurship, which has the potential to not only create jobs but also foster economic growth and innovation. Job creation, innovation, economic growth and diversification were addressed as the benefits of entrepreneurship by the speaker. The speaker stated that many potential entrepreneurs face challenges in securing startup capital, limiting their ability to start businesses and create jobs. Entrepreneurship often requires a diverse skill set and knowledge of business management. Entrepreneurship involves a high level of risk, and not all businesses succeed. Fear of failure can deter potential entrepreneurs. The speaker quoted the success story of prominent entrepreneurs. The resource person also explained about the entrepreneurial ecosystem and the need to connect with the ecosystem to navigate the challenges of starting a business. The participants raised few questions to clarify their doubts and enriched their knowledge.

On 27th October, 2023 “Exposure Visit to Kerala Automobiles Ltd for Problem Identification” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering from 09:30 pm to 04.30 pm. 53 students and 3 faculties participated in the program. Shri.P.Ajithkumar (Manager), Kerala Automobiles Ltd (KAL) welcomed the students and faculties. Kerala Automobiles Ltd (KAL) is a well-established automobile manufacturing company located in Trivandrum. The company specializes in the production of various types of vehicles, including auto, trucks, and commercial vehicles. During the visit, we had the opportunity to interact with the management team and visited the manufacturing facilities, and had discussion with the employees at various levels.

On 26.10.2023 a Expert Talk on " Emerging Business Opportunities" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director, President, IIC from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started her welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights were the themes of IIC.

The guest speaker started the speech by explaining entrepreneurship and the importance of entrepreneurship in improving the economic conditions of the people and business establishments. He said lot of business opportunities are emerging due to the changes in the technology. He said that entrepreneurs and existing businesses need to stay agile and adapt to new trends and also to leverage these opportunities to drive growth and innovation. He explained the key to success in these emerging sectors is a combination of innovation, a deep understanding of market needs, and the ability to adapt to evolving trends and consumer preferences. By identifying and seizing these opportunities, businesses can position themselves for long-term success. He discussed the various opportunities that created during COVID times and the growth of e-commerce continues to be a prominent trend, with increasing numbers of consumers opting for online shopping.

He explained a comprehensive list of government assistance programs designed to nurture and support startup initiatives, including initiatives like startup seed money and the startup India financial scheme. He emphasized that a significant number of entrepreneurs lack awareness of the diverse financial aid opportunities made available by the government and various financial institutions. He also elucidated the key nodal agencies responsible for administering these financial aids and outlined the application procedures for aspiring startups to access this financial support. The engagement between the students and the expert was incredibly inspiring for all attendees. The session concluded with students providing their feedback. The students left the session with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with valuable insights that will undoubtedly shape their entrepreneurial journeys. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

On 26.10.2023 a Workshop on the title “Empowering the Engineers to become Entrepreneur in Information Technology” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. A Jainu Fathima Associate Professor/ Department of computer science engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10AM-12PM. 43 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker Dr A Jainul Fathima started the speech by initiating the world of IT entrepreneurship. While explaining the entrepreneurship in IT sector, she gave lot of examples. Students were given innovative ideas about the opportunities for developing the IT startups. She highlighted the entrepreneurial opportunities in Digital Marketing and how it can be converted into startup initiatives.

The resource person asked the participants to give one innovative idea to start the business establishment. The ideas given by the participants were taken up for the discussion and the resource person gave lot of tips for fine tuning the ideas presented by the participants. The participants eagerly participated in the discussion and shared their ideas which were mentored by the resource person. The session gave an eye opening to the participants and the participants were really motivated by the resource person.

On 25.10.2023 a seminar on "Inspiring Insights from a Successful Student Start-up Founder" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu & Mr. Dharshan Kumar Lingam, Final Year & Student Startup Founders, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College and introduced the guest speakers to the participants. As the guest speakers were students belong to the same department, the participants were very happy to hear their entrepreneurial journey. He started explaining the Zero stage to the present level entrepreneurial journey. First he explained the beginning of the Inseat food Pvt. Ltd, a startup company.

In-seat food startup has significantly transformed the stadium dining landscape, enhancing the overall spectator experience and contributing to increased revenue for partnering venues. Moving forward, the speaker aims to expand their services to additional stadiums and entertainment arenas, solidifying their position as a leading provider of in-seat food solutions.

The speaker explained the insights, including the importance of agility in adapting to unique market environments and the significance of fostering strong partnerships to drive business growth. They also learned the value of prioritizing customer satisfaction and the role of innovation in creating a competitive edge within the food service industry. The speaker’s commitment to redefining in-seat dining experiences in stadiums has set a benchmark for excellence within the industry. Their innovative approach, operational expertise, and dedication to customer satisfaction serve as a testament to the impact of entrepreneurial vision and strategic execution in creating meaningful and successful ventures. The participants interacted with the speakers and gathered more information about the business opportunities.

FX HACK 23: 24 hour Internal Hackathon was organized by the FX Incubation Centre and IIC in association with the Entrepreneurship Development Cell. The 24 hour Hackathon was organized by Dr. K. Lakshminarayanan, Professor, Incubation Centre of Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 04.00 PM of 19.10.23 - 04.30 PM of 20.10.23. 165 students, comprising of 18 Hardware teams and 23 Software teams. Students from Civil, Computer Science, Electrical and Electronics, Electronics and Communication and Mechanical Engineering, came together to solve real-world problems using technology.

Participants worked relentlessly for 24 hours, exhibiting their commitment to solve the problems and bringing out the solution using the technology. Experienced mentors from various Incubation centres guided the competing teams, offering valuable insights and assisting in overcoming technical and conceptual challenges. The success of this hackathon goes beyond the impressive and innovative projects. The whole exercise helped the participants to learn and enrich their thinking capabilities.

On October 20, 2023, a Guest Lecture on "Discussion on Startup Opportunities" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell (EDC) and the Institution’s innovation Council (IIC) in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application (MCA). The resource person of the session was Ms. M. Dharshini, a fourth-year student pursuing Computer Science at Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli and she is also the Student startup founder. The event took place from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and was attended by 53 students and 2 faculty members. Mrs. M.K. Subbulakshmi, an Assistant Professor in the Master of Computer Applications department, coordinated the event.

The event began with an introduction of the student startup founder Ms. M. Dharshini, by Mrs. M.K. Subbulakshmi. The guest speaker, started her speech by addressing the fundamental aspects of entrepreneurship and why students must involve in entrepreneurship. She gave few examples of student entrepreneurs who are earning while learning. She shared her startup experience and the difficulties faced during the startup journey. She explained the product she developed and the grant received from Entrepreneurship Development and Innovation Institute of Tamil Nadu (EDII) under Innovation Voucher Program (IVP) for developing the innovative products. While explaining the startup journey, she shared lot of innovative ideas which can be taken up for developing the new products.

The guest speaker highlighted the process of identifying the innovative product ideas and how to screen the ideas to choose the best idea. She asked the students to identifying unmet needs, market gaps, and emerging trends as sources of identifying the innovative ideas and developing the right product to satisfy the unmet needs of the people. She also highlighted the problems associated with the development of the product and commercialise the same. In fact the session was an eye opening one all the participants involved in the discussion and benefitted out of it.

On 18.10.2023 a “Identifying Innovative Startup Avenue in Electronics” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Dr. G. Rajakumar, Controller of Examinations, IIC Vice President, Professor/ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 41 students and 1 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address of Mrs Friska, HoD of ECE and she explained the activities of IIC and motivated the students to actively participate in IIC activity. She said to the students must take initiative to become a successful entrepreneur or a successful Innovator. She said today we have our IIC Vice President Dr. G. Rajakumar, who came here with various Startup Avenue in Electronics. She welcomes the students and asked the students to listen to various new avenues.

The speaker started the session and said that the electronics sector is expanding globally due to quick technological advancements and the manufacturing companies that specializes in electronic items. The speaker suggested few opportunities namely Sales, Servicing & Repair, PCB Manufacturing, Developing Embedded Products, Electronic Test Equipment Rental Services, Industrial Automation, Electrical Panel Manufacturing and E-Waste Recycling. The speaker highlighted the major global smartphone market players such as Apple, Samsung, Huawei, OPPO, Vivo, Xiaomi, Lenovo, LG Electronics, Sony, and ZTE which were started with a small capital.

He also suggested few Startup Avenue in Electronics such as Gaming Computer Assembly, Battery Manufacturing, Security Camera Manufacturing, Low-Cost Chip Manufacture, Robotic Vacuum Cleaners, Provider of Solar Panel Systems, Manufacturing of Inverters and Pneumatic Tools Production. He concluded his speech and said that being an entrepreneur one can enjoy the flexibility, independence, the time and financial freedom. He also addressed the question raised by the participants. The session was an interactive one and the participants gathered lot of business ideas in the field of Electronics.

On 18.10.2023 a Workshop on the title " Igniting the Young Minds the Passion towards Entrepreneurship” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. E. Manohar Assistant Professor/ Department of computer science engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10 AM-12 PM . 42 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker said that several emerging trends have dominated the IT landscape. Passion towards entrepreneurship will pave a way for the transformative initiative aimed at nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit among young minds. The speaker gave lot of examples to impress the students about the role of entrepreneurship and the various opportunities available in the field of entrepreneurship. He inspired the students to dream big and take calculated risk to enter into the field of entrepreneurship. By providing real-world exposure and facilitating interactions with successful entrepreneurs, the students can develop their business ideas and turn them into viable ventures.

The program successfully ignited a passion for entrepreneurship in the hearts and minds of the young participants, fostering innovation and creativity. By encouraging them to explore and develop their own business ideas, it empowered them to become future leaders and job creators. It's a beacon for the young and ambitious students to fulfill their entrepreneurial dreams and ensuring a brighter future for innovation and business development. The session went on well and all the participants gained a lot of information about entrepreneurship and developed a passion towards entrepreneurship.

On 17.10.2023 a session on “Plan Your Carrier : Be a Creative Innovator” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Ms.M.Dharshini , IV CSE, student innovator FXEC. 60 students from first year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 9.00 AM –12.30 PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Ms.M.Dharshini , IV CSE, student innovator FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS .The resource person discussed about the concept and the process of innovation. The resource person shared her personal experience as a product innovator. She said that the creative innovators should understand their strengths, passions, and interests. Based on the interest and passion one must explore and apply the knowledge one is having in some application areas which will throw light in to the next stage. She advised the students to explore their creative talents, problem-solving abilities, and areas of curiosity. This insight will help them to identify their unique path as an innovator. A strong educational foundation is also essential for a creative innovator.

She said that networking can help the students to gain new perspectives, collaborate on projects, and access valuable resources. She asked the students to experiment with the ideas and projects. Be prepared to pivot and adapt as necessary. Whether you want to pursue entrepreneurship by starting your own venture or work as an intrapreneur within an established organization will offer opportunities for innovation but come with different challenges and rewards. Planning your career as a creative innovator requires a combination of self-discovery, education, networking, and resilience. It's a journey marked by continuous learning, experimentation, and a commitment to turning your creative ideas into reality. .In the end of the session feedback link shared to the students and collected the feedback.

On 17.10.2023 a seminar on "Design your Career Path: Be an Entrepreneur" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Ms.M.Dharshini, Final Year & Student Innovator, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.00 AM - 12.30 PM. 61 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The speaker explained about entrepreneurship and the importance of choosing entrepreneurship as the career option. While explaining the concept of entrepreneurship she gave few examples form the successful Indian entrepreneurs. She also gave information about local entrepreneurs also. The speaker emphasized the importance of identifying the problems faced by the common people and the unmet needs of the people. For identifying the unmet needs, she asked the participants to watch the market closely. She also identify the problems faced by the common people in the ordinary way of life. This will throw light about the business opportunities which can be used to develop the business establishment.

The speaker also requested the participants to present the innovative ideas which evoked a good response among the participants and created a discussion among the participants. The speaker also said that using the brainstorming technique the new ideas can be identified and explore the comprehensive potential of the same. Lastly, the speaker emphasized the necessity of collecting information about various business opportunities through various sources to spot the right opportunity to pay more attention. Participants shared their views by contributing their ideas.

On 17th October, 2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering organized a talk on “Identifying the Inner Thirst towards Entrepreneurship” from 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Ms.M.Dharshini, Final Year CSE & Student Innovator, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and 1 staff member participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the session.

Resource person began by emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s inner drive towards entrepreneurship and how it shapes one’s journey in the business world. Resource person highlighted that entrepreneurship is not merely a career choice but often a reflection of an individual’s intrinsic motivations. The expert talk explored the various intrinsic drivers such as a desire for autonomy, passion for problem-solving, the need for creativity and the aspiration for financial independence. The resource person also addressed the challenges in recognizing one’s inner thirst for entrepreneurship. Many individuals are influenced by societal norms, fear of failure or financial security concerns, which can cloud their true calling. The expert talk stressed the importance of self-awareness and introspection. She provided practical advice on how to nurture the inner thirst for entrepreneurship, strategies including mentorship, networking, continuous learning and developing a growth mindset. These insights were particularly valuable for individuals looking to embark on an entrepreneurial journey. Finally the expert talk concluded with an interactive Q & A session, where students had the opportunity to seek clarification and advice on their specific entrepreneurial aspirations

On 16.10.2023 a Talk on " Dream Big: Become an Entrepreneur " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. Anto Joel Valan Mutharasu, Inseatfood Pvt. Ltd, Student Startup founder, from 1.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 43 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She lso introduced the resource person and the Students Startup founder. The guest speaker started his speech by a puzzle and created interactions between students in an attractive manner and spoke about entrepreneurship, Risk taking, planning and technology transfer. He also encouraged the students to identify the unmet needs of the people and develop an innovative product to fulfil their expectation. He said that dedicating the time to innovate something new and bringing it to market in order to effect worthwhile social change. He highlighted some of the futuristic startup opportunities for Electrical Engineers. He also explained the importance of becoming a student entrepreneur and the importance of market research and customer validation. He also listed some of the Government funding Schemes which can be used for developing the startup. The session was an interactive one and all the participants gathered lot of information from the resource person.

On 11.10.2023 a seminar on "Dreams to success a Motivational session by a Student Startupreneur" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Mr.M.Praveen, Product Innovator and startup founder, Final year CSE. 59 Final Year CSE students and 1 faculty member participated in the program from 1.30 PM – 4.00 PM. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced the resource person of the session to the participants. The resource person being the Product Innovator he explained the importance of innovation and the process involved in the product innovation. He shared his personal experiences in the product development. Throughout the session, he pointed that opportunities must be searched for, rather than waiting. Every entrepreneur must have a in depth knowledge about their products. Ignorance about the products is a major problem that can lead to the failure of the business. The speaker stressed the importance of being updated about the changes that are happening in the market and also highlighted the importance of identifying customer needs and wants by an entrepreneur. The discussion created a discussion among the participants and they gave few business ideas which were discussed among the participants.

Overall, a motivational session by a successful start-up founder evoked good response among the participants and they gathered lot of new business ideas from the speaker. Feedback was collected from the participants about the session.

On 09.10.2023 an Expert Talk on "Industry Interaction Meeting" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. The Session was handled by Ayerajothi R, Managing Partner at Stradegi, Singapore from 2.00 PM - 4.30 PM. 43 students from third year AI&DS and 2 faculties of ECE and AI&DS department participated. The program was coordinated by Mrs S Poonam, Assistant Professor /AI & DS, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The speaker said to the students that primary objective of this program was to equip students with the knowledge and inspiration needed to develop innovative startup ideas that address industrial challenges. The speaker said that the identification of the problems faced by the industry should be given priority. He said Industry Analysis, Surveys and Interviews are the few methodologies to identify the problem in the industry. He said surveys and interviews should be conducted with industry professionals, including employees, managers, and experts to gather qualitative and quantitative data about the problems they encounter.

The resource person asked the students to conduct market research to assess the competitive landscape and to understand market gaps or areas with unmet needs to develop an innovative idea. He also highlighted few examples of key problems such as sustainability concerns, Market Fragmentation, Supply Chain Disruptions, Sustainability Concerns and Outdated Technology. He said many companies still rely on legacy systems and outdated technology, hindering operational efficiency and hindering their ability to adapt to market changes. The speaker said that the students from engineering back ground can start a new startup with newly updated technology in the place of outdated technology. The speaker concluded the session and said that process of industrial interaction and problem identification is a crucial step in the journey of starting a new startup. The findings from this interaction will serve as a foundation for addressing industry challenges and creating a business that offers innovative solutions. By strategically addressing these problems, the new startup can carve its path to success in the industry.

On 07.10.2023 a session on " Idea to Startup: A Career Choice for Engineers" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by M.Dharshini, IV/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 04.30 PM. 53 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms.A.Arthy,AP/CSBS. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The resource person Ms.M.Dharshini, product innovator and startup founder, IV/CSE Francis Xavier Engineering College was introduced to the participants. The resource person started the speech by explaining the journey from idea to startup which has emerged as a viable and exciting career choice for engineers in recent years. She explained the advantages of being an entrepreneur by giving detailed insight about the business opportunities available in the social domain. She stated that the engineering profession has traditionally been associated with working for established corporations or government organizations and however, an increasing number of engineers are now considering entrepreneurship as a career path.

The rise of technology-driven startups, access to venture capital, and the global demand for innovative solutions have created a fertile ground for engineers to turn their ideas into successful businesses. She said that entrepreneurship provides the freedom to set one's own goals, make decisions, and chart a unique course for the business. She also mentioned that unwavering passion, ambition, self-confidence, adaptability, humbleness, hardworking, persuasive and comfortable with risk is some of the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur. She also explained different types of entrepreneurship like small business, online business, home based business and serial entrepreneurship. She shared her personal experience as how she started her startup journey with a clear vision but limited resources. She explained the startup opportunities in engineering field by identifying a specific problem or opportunity in the engineering domain that students are passionate about solving or exploring. She makes the students to understand that the path of entrepreneurship may include challenges, setbacks, and uncertainties. And to maintain a resilient mindset, learn from failures, and persevere in pursuit of their startup goals. The participants interacted with the resource person and gathered lot of information regarding entrepreneurship and business opportunities. The session came to an end with the feedback given by the participants

On October 6th 2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Information and Technology organized an “IDEA CONTEST 2023”. The Idea Contest was organized exclusively designed for school students studying from 9th to 12th standard. Total of 32 schools participated in the event, representing a wide array of talent and creativity. Students from in and around of Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Tenkasi made the event truly diverse and competitive. A total of 75 teams consisting of 172 students participated in the Project Expo, showcasing their innovative ideas. This event was a platform to nurture the talents of young minds and provide them with an opportunity to showcase their innovative Ideas. Each project was evaluated by a panel of expert judges, and participants were given an opportunity to explain their projects in detail. The projects ranged from sustainable energy solutions to innovative tech models. The students were allotted adequate space and necessary tools for setting up their presentation from 9.30 AM to 4.00 PM. Mrs.Anupama Ratta, Head of HR, Tata Power Energy Limited, Dr. G. Simiyan, Assistant Director, MSME Tirunelveli and Madurai Branch, and Mr. Stephen, Technical Head, Tata Power Systems were the invited guest.

The participants displayed their innovative design, product and the models like Neon writing board, Blind cap, Blind Stick, avoid train accident, Automatic bridge lift for flood flowing, automatic vibuthi mechanic kit, Automatic prevent death in slump and septic tank, Automatic light dimmer, Automatic highway lighting system, security alarm system, Rain detector module, Line follower robot, Obstacle avoiding robot, Smart farming and Road accident prevention methods.

The innovative projects were evaluated by a team of expert by visiting their stalls and interviewing the product innovators. During this evaluation the experts raised lot of questions related to their project and gave suggestions to enrich the innovative ideas. The project exhibition came to an end with the valedictory function where the prizes were given to the winners and certificates were issued to the participants by the Principal of the college. The competition created a motivation to do more and to innovate new ideas. Students were also visited the project presented by the students. The display gave an insight to the students visited displayed innovative models or ideas

On 6th October 2023, Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with Department of Civil Engineering organized a Workshop on “Entrepreneurship and Innovation: A Way Forward for the Engineering Graduates”. The resource person for the program was Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering, Tirunelveli. 178 first year civil, IT, EEE and mechanical students participated in the program. The session was coordinated by Dr. M. Renisha, Assistant Professor, Department of civil engineering, FXEC.

The resource person stated that “Entrepreneurial learning, or the acquisition of entrepreneurial skills, in engineering at the college level has become an important topic”. The society needs engineers who are prepared to adapt to changing market conditions and enhance innovations that offer new value to customers and society as a whole. The speaker emphasized that an entrepreneurial mind set, knowledge, skills, and attitudes are closely related to innovation and creativity that are essential to prepare students for a successful professional life. /p>

She also stated that for engineering graduate, entrepreneurship would be the best career choice. In support of this she gave lot of examples of Indian successful entrepreneurs. He requested the participants to read the success story of the leading entrepreneurs. The resource person explained the need for innovation in the present scenario and highlighted the emerging opportunities in entrepreneurship by giving lot of practical examples. She also shared the path way to achieve the key parameters of innovation through problem statement, Ideate, Prototype and Test through number of practical examples. The session was very useful and the participants gained lot of information from the resource person.

On 4.10.2023 Orientation on “Entrepreneurship: A Step Forward” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC through offline mode. The session was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 01.30 PM- 3.30 PM. 120 students and one faculty participated.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr.P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He gave the brief introduction about the resource person and the importance and initiatives of EDC cell in developing young minds in the entrepreneurial way. The resource person started her session by stating that Entrepreneurship plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and creating job opportunities. She continued her presentation by sharing the success stories of few Indian entrepreneurs who are the pioneers of the respective domains. Then she moved the session by asking the question “why people become entrepreneurs?”. Students gave some interesting answers. By acknowledging the answers, she started explaining that entrepreneurs are key contributors to job creation. Startups and small businesses, which often stem from entrepreneurial endeavors, account for a substantial portion of global employment. They create job opportunities that are vital for reducing unemployment rates and improving the overall well-being of a society.

She continued her speech, by explaining that entrepreneurship empowers individuals to generate income independently. This can lead to increased social mobility and reduced income inequality as people from various backgrounds have the opportunity to create their own businesses. The students were given information about the funding options, such as venture capital, angel investors, and crowdfunding, to help entrepreneurs secure the necessary funding for their ventures. The session gave enriching insight about entrepreneurship and all the participants benefitted by the program.

On 3.10.2023 an Expert Talk on "Unlocking Career Opportunities: Entrepreneurship and Innovation" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 1.30 PM - 4.00 PM. 173 students from first year ECE, AI&DS and Civil and 2 faculties of ECE department participated. The program was coordinated by Mr Pradheep T Rajan B, Assistant Professor /ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The speaker started the session by explaining the concept of entrepreneurship and innovation, emphasizing their pivotal roles in driving economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements. The speaker said that innovation is Invention + Commercialization. He said for creating an innovative product, students should choose a social related problems and address the problem with the innovative ideas. He shared the story of Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato, to create inspiration among the students. He also said that the traits and mindset required for becoming a successful entrepreneur such as, creativity, risk-taking, adaptability, and resilience. He said these qualities can be cultivated and nurtured through education and experiential learning.

During the session the speaker highlighted the overview of the diverse career opportunities within the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem. He covered the areas such as startups, corporate innovation, social entrepreneurship, and venture capital. He outlined the common obstacles faced by the aspiring entrepreneurs, including financial constraints, market competition, and failure. He also addressed the strategies for mitigating these risks by highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. He concluded the session by sharing the potential benefits and rewards of pursuing a career in entrepreneurship and innovation. This includes financial rewards, job satisfaction, and the opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the society through innovation and problem-solving.

On 30th September, 2023 an “Expert Talk on Start-up Avenues in Mechanical Engineering” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering from 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Dr.K.Vinukumar, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and I faculty participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

Resource person explained the concept of startups and the importance of developing the startups. He shared lot of examples Indian start-ups which are running successfully. He said in mechanical engineering also lot of innovations are emerging and the innovators must use their innovations for developing the startups. Next he discussed about three major elements of market trends such as automation, green energy, AI and machine learning. Regarding automation, with the rise of Industry 4.0, start-ups are leveraging automation technologies to optimize manufacturing processes.

He also said that for green energy, start-ups are driving the transition to cleaner energy sources by developing sustainable technologies and renewable energy solutions. AI & Machine Learning are transforming the mechanical engineering landscape, empowering start-ups to develop smart and autonomous systems. Resource person said what are the challenges faced to develop the start-ups such as funding, competition and technical expertise and how to rectify that. Next he indicated about fundamental strategies to develop the effective start-up such as market research, network building and rapid iteration. Resource person shared the successful mechanical engineering start-ups such as 3D printing start-up, robotic arm company & solar energy start-up. Regarding start-up avenues in mechanical engineering, he told about lot of innovative opportunities such as smart manufacturing, autonomous vehicles and nanotechnology. Overall as the world becomes increasingly technologically advanced, start-ups in mechanical engineering play a critical role in driving innovation and shaping the future of industries. The participants interacted with the resource person over enthusiastically and gained lot of knowledge and information about the startup opportunities in the mechanical engineering.

On 30.09.2023 an expert talk on “Potential Avenues for Startup in Civil Engineering” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the department of Civil Engineering from 1.30 PM to 3.30 PM. The resource person for the session was Mr. A. Sumil Kumaran, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 42 Civil engineering students and 1 faculty attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. P.Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The speaker explained the meaning of startup and the process of developing the startup with live examples which created the interest to the participants to know more about the startup opportunities. The guest speaker being the Civil Engineer, he explained the various opportunities in the civil engineering sector. He also highlighted the technological advancement in the technological advancement such as the integration of digital technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), photovoltaic glaze (BIPV), Kinetic footfall and Self-healing Concrete and Construction Management Software, has revolutionized the industry, offering increased efficiency and cost savings for startups.

He also stated that besides proper planning, scheduling of work is also a very essential aspect to get success in this field. He highlighted various entrepreneurial aspects such as building planner, civil contractor and sub-contractor, consultant, quantity surveyor, material supplier, labour contractor, real estate marketing agent and surveyor. He emphasized on the importance of funding and also explained the types of funding in detail including the risk factors, the threshold of commitment, involvement in decision making, sources and return to investor involved in it. The participants raised few questions which were answered by the speaker with live examples. Feedback was collected from the students at the end of the session.

On 29.09.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Entrepreneurial Opportunities to Earn while Learn" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen Director EDC&IIC President at Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 11.00 AM - 1.00 PM. 55 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/ECE.

The guest speaker, Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, commenced his speech by addressing the fundamental aspects of entrepreneurship and its importance. While explaining the role of entrepreneurship in the development of economic development of a nation. In support of this he gave lot of examples to explain how entrepreneurship plays the major role in providing employment to millions of people and how it bridges the gap between the rural and urban development. He inspired the students giving the entrepreneurial opportunities which can be used for making income while learn. He asked the participants to give reasons for the fast-food items used by most of us. The participants replied by saying that it is tasty, looking nice, less costly, instant etc. Then the speaker said that the real reason for using the fast- food and instant foods are less time consuming for the preparation. One prudent person identified the problem faced by the parents and introduced the instant food items which created a huge market we experiencing today.

The guest speaker guided students on how to generate innovative business ideas. He emphasized the need to identify unmet needs, market gaps, and trends as sources of inspiration for entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, the speaker addressed the inevitable challenges faced by entrepreneurs. He discussed effective problem-solving strategies and ways to rectify issues that arise during the entrepreneurial journey. He concluded his presentation by requesting the students to involve in student entrepreneurship to earn while learn.

On 29.9.2023 a session on “Motivational Session by a Successful Innovator” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by Mr. M. Praveen, Product Innovator and startup Founder doing III CSE, FXEC. 65 students from second year AI&DS and one faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P. Sooriabrabha , Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30PM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker, Mr. M. Praveen, Product Innovator and startup Founder doing final year CSE, FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS .The resource person discussed about innovation and the process of developing an innovative product. The resource person being the product innovator and also the startup founder, he gave lot of innovative ideas to the participants. He shared his personal experiences as a product innovator and a startup founder. He emphasized the importance of staying curious and continuous learning. Moreover, he said that innovation often arises from a willingness to explore new dimensions and acquire diverse knowledge. He as an innovator highlighted the role of collaboration and diverse perspectives in sparking innovation. He encouraged the participants to engage with individuals from different background to stimulate fresh ideas.

The session was an interactive one and the students interacted with the resource person since he is also a student of the same college. The participants were given opportunity to raise questions which were addressed by the resource person. In fact, the participants gained lot of new insights about innovation and the process of developing an innovative product. At the end of the session feedback was collected from the students.

On 29.09.2023 a session on “Looking Back the Entrepreneurial Track - An Experience Sharing” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department. The session was handled by Mr Muth Barvin R, II CSBS, Proprietor, Tamilan Gadgets, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 46 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convenor, he introduced the student entrepreneur and explained the activities of IIC. The guest speaker started his speech and said that he has two startups, one Tamil gadgets which deals with Mobile accessories, New mobile, Demo mobile, Secondhand mobile, Photo frame and customize gifts and the second one is Techtonic, door step mobile service in Tirunelveli. He said the Corona pandemic period paved the way to develop my entrepreneurial journey. The speaker said to the students that during the pandemic I started my business of selling cell phone back cases later the business was extended to provide door step mobile service in Tirunelveli. He advised the students to start a small business in the initial stage it will create the interest to grow as a big business in future. He said techtonic was started before three months and so far, I have received 250 orders. It happened just because of identifying the gap in the market and introduced the door step mobile service.

He requested the students to identify the gap in the market or a problem that needs to be solved, which will lay the foundation for beginning the entrepreneurial journey. He also said that entrepreneurship is never a smooth ride. During my journey I have encountered various challenges, including financial constraints, market competition, and operational hurdles. These challenges made me to think and produce creativity solutions to overcome all my hurdles. He said entrepreneurship is a constant learning experience. This includes insights on leadership, team management, adaptability, and the importance of networking. He concluded the session by sharing his future plan for expanding the startup Techtonic from Tirunelveli to Tamilnadu. The session was an interactive one and all the participants enjoyed the session and motivated by the guest speaker.

On 27.09.2023 a session on "Identifying Innovative Startup Avenues in the field of Information Technology for product development” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Ms. S.Agnes Joshy Assistant Professor, IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 2- 4PM . 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT , Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker Ms. S Agnes Joshy started the speech by highlighting the Information Technology (IT) sector and the various avenues for developing innovative startups. While addressing the avenues she gave lot of live examples for the business opportunities and tech startups using the present technologies.

She explained the several emerging trends which are dominating the IT landscape. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are at the forefront, with startups finding applications in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and e-commerce. The healthcare IT sector demands innovation in electronic health records (EHR), telemedicine, and patient data security. Fintech startups can serve the financial industry by introducing digital payment solutions, robo-advisors, and blockchain-based financial services. She also gave information about E-commerce and the opportunities for startups to develop AI-driven engines, supply chain optimization tools, and personalized shopping experiences. The education technology (EdTech) sector is witnessing significant growth, with potential for startups to create e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and educational content. The concept of smart cities is gaining momentum, opening doors for startups to contribute to IoT-based infrastructure management, traffic optimization, and environmental monitoring. The session was informative and students gained knowledge about the innovative areas in IT sector.

On 27th September 2023 the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems in association with Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC organized an Exposure Visit to M-Squared Technologies, Tiruvandrum from 9.30.AM - 5.00 PM. 46 students of second year Computer Science and Business Systems participated in the exposure visit. The program was coordinated by Ms.A.Arthy and Mrs.M.Deepa Assistant Professor, department of CS&BS.

M-Squared Technologies team began by providing an overview of the company's history, mission, and vision, which gave us valuable insights into the organization's goals and values. The students were taken on a guided tour of the company's state-of-the-art facilities. During the tour, the students had the opportunity to observe various departments, including research and development, quality control which were well-maintained and equipped with the latest technology.

Ms. Dhanya Mohan, Software Developer, M - Squared Software solutions and Services Pvt. Ltd, Trivandrum addressed the students about the organization and the recent trends in the IT sector. They are developing the software which provides cutting-edge engineering solutions, guiding companies and enterprise clients to tackle complex problems that arise in their operation. M-Squared is a team that is passionate about designing and delivering enterprise-grade apps and understands how to take custom software application ideas from inception to completion. The speaker also said that M-Squared has a dedicated team of specialists that are talented in the development and integration of a wide range of software applications, primarily in the fields of software development and related technologies.

M-Squared Technologies organized an interactive session with their experts and engineers which allowed us to engage in meaningful discussions and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and innovations in the industry. The experts were patient and answered our questions enthusiastically. The students had the opportunity to network with professionals and employees of M-Squared Technologies, which was invaluable for building industry connections and gaining insights into potential career paths.

On 27.09.2023 a “Innovation in Science – A Journey Towards Technology” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the IPR Club. The session was handled by Dr. V. Balasubramanian, Assistant Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 43 students and 1 faculty participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. Dr. P. S. Suja Ponmini, Associate Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Mrs J Friska, ASP/ECE, FXEC.

The guest speaker started his speech and said that innovation can be referred to something new or a change made to an existing product, idea, or field. He also explained the emerging technology which can be used for the development of innovative products. He also highlighted the technologies like artificial intelligence, ARVR, Block Chain, biotechnology, renewable energy, and nanotechnology. He said the effective use of these technologies will pave the way to develop the innovative products which can resolve the existing problems. The speaker asked the students to give strong focus on sustainability. Innovation in science and technology can address pressing global issues and the developmental needs. The speaker emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration in scientific innovation and shared examples of successful projects that emerged from collaborative efforts across various scientific fields. The speaker also highlighted the role of protecting the innovations through intellectual property rights (IPR). He also gave lot of examples for the issues related to the innovative products. He concluded the speech by saying that digitalization and digital transformation is reshaping the scientific landscape and revolutionizing research in the field of science and technologies.

The program was very much interactive wherein the participants raised few questions about the innovative products developed with the help of new technologies. The participants gained knowledge and new insights about the new and emerging technologies and the process of protecting the rights of the innovative products.

On 27.09.2023 " Motivational talk: Identifying Innovative areas in Electrical and Electronics Engineering for Product Development " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. A. Ananth, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, EDC Coordinator, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She introduced resource person Mr. A. Ananth, Assistant Professor FXEC. The guest speaker outlined the opportunities for Electrical and Electronics Engineering field for the development of the Innovative products. He explained the innovative areas for Electrical Engineers such as Energy Efficiency and Sustainability, Digital Transformation and IoT, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, Automation and Robotics, 5G and beyond. He gave lot of live examples while explaining the innovative areas. He also explained the challenges and opportunities one has to face while taking initiative to develop innovative product. He also gave the list of business opportunities in E-Waste management, E-waste recycling, developing innovative methods & Technologies for processing new form of E-Waste etc. The participants interacted with the guest speaker and gathered lot of information.

On 23.09.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Leading the way: Entreprenerurship in the Digital Frontier" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr. Vasanthkumar, Founder & CEO-Brand Mindz Global (Branding &Marketing Expert) from 10.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/ECE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. Angeline Ranjithamani HOD-MCA, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights are the important terms one must familiarize. She introduced the guest speaker. The guest speaker started the speech by explaining the concept of entrepreneurship and the importance of entrepreneurship for the growth and prosperity of a nation. He gave lot of examples by citing the names of the leading Indian Men and Women entrepreneurs who have excelled in their career. He also said about the opportunities which are available in the social domine. He asked the participants to list few problems faced in the ordinary walks of our life. He then requested the participants to give a solution for few problems. He said this the way the problem needs to be identified and to become an entrepreneur.

He also spoke about branding the product and protecting the product or business against the possible infringement. In the second session, guest speaker talked about his own company details and the challenges faced by him. At the end of the session he conducted some mental aptitude game. He concludes the session by requesting the participants to choose entrepreneurship as the career option. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. Session came to an end with the feedback of students.

On 20th Sep. 2023 an “Expert Talk on Sharing the Entrepreneurial Experience for the Mechanical Engineers” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering from 09:30 am to 12.30 pm. Mr.S.Gokulakrishanan, Student Entrepreneur, Final Year Mechanical, FXEC was the resource person. 40 students and one faculty participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

Resource person began with an introduction to the concept of entrepreneurship and its relevance to mechanical engineers. He emphasized that entrepreneurship is not limited to creating tech startups but can also be applied to various mechanical engineering domains. He shared his personal entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and the milestones achieved. The resource person discussed how mechanical engineers can identify opportunities in the market, emphasizing the importance of innovation and problem-solving skills. He highlighted several success stories of mechanical engineers who ventured into entrepreneurship and created groundbreaking products. The talk delved into the crucial aspects of developing a business plan, including market research, funding options and competitive analysis.

The resource person stressed the need for a well-structured plan as the foundation of any successful venture and shared the strategies to overcome these challenges also. He emphasized the value of networking and seeking mentorship within the entrepreneurial ecosystems and he encouraged participants to connect with experienced entrepreneurs and gather their knowledge and expertise. The session concluded with the Q&A session, wherein, the students asked few questions about the business opportunities in the field of mechanical engineering. The participants enjoyed the session and gathered lot of information from the resource person.

On 15th Sep. 2023 a session on “Be an Entrepreneur to Scale New Heights” was organized by the PG & Research Department of Commerce, St.Xavier’s College, Palayamkottai, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu. Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, Director, Centre for Entrepreneurship Development and President, Institution’s Innovation Council and the Innovation Ambassador for Innovation and Incubation Management. 45 B.Com final year and 25 final year M.Com students attended the program.

The resource person explained the concept of entrepreneurship and the importance of entrepreneurship in the economic development. While explaining the concept of entrepreneurship and its importance to the country, he gave examples of Indian entrepreneurs and their contributions to the economic growth. During the discussion the resource person highlighted the business opportunities which are available in the social domine using the local resources. He explained the value-added products which can be produced using the vegetables and fruits. He also mentioned about the PMFME scheme which provides funding support to startups with subsidy. The guest speaker also explained the concept of earn while learn and how the students can start earning while learning. He highlighted some of the avenues for earning while learning.

On 14.9.2023 a session on “Problem Solving and Ideation workshop” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by Mrs. M. Thana Lakshmi AP/MBA, FXEC. 45 students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was Coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mrs.M.Thana Lakshmi AP/MBA, FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS. The resource person discussed about problem solving and ideation techniques. Moreover, the explanations were given on different problem-solving models, including the scientific method, design thinking and root cause analysis. She explained the creative thinking techniques, such as brainstorming and mind mapping. Hands-on exercises to apply ideation techniques to specific challenges were also discussed with lot of live examples.

The resource person explained how the problem-solving techniques can be implemented to find a solution. Students attended the program raised few questions to solve some of the existing problems. All the queries were answered by the resource person with suitable examples. The session was an interactive one wherein all the participants gained the knowledge and understand the concept of problem solving and ideation. At the end of the session feedback was collected from the students.

On 14.09.2023 a seminar on "My Story-Motivational Session by Successful Innovators" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The Session was handled by Ms.M.Dharshini, Final Year Student, Student Innovator and Startup Founder, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The resource person being the Student Innovator and a Startup Founder explained about idea generation process which helps to generate ideas and solutions through Sketching, Prototyping, Brainstorming, Brain writing, Worst Possible Idea, and other ideation techniques. The speaker detailed about ideation and the various stages in a Design Thinking, because during Ideation, the aim is to generate more number of ideas which can be filtered and reduced to the best, most practical or most innovative to give the best solution to the problem. The resource person being the student, interacted very freely with the students and generated lot of discussion from the student side. The students proposed few innovative ideas which were taken up for the discussion and the resource person finetuned the idea proposed during the discussion. The session was an interesting one and all the participants gained knowledge about the ideation process involved in the innovation.

On 14.09.2023 a Workshop on " Entrepreneurship and Innovation as a Career Opportunity" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Information Technology. The session was handled by Dr. J B Shajilin Loret, Head of the department -IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.20-2.20 PM . 40 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. R Shirly Myrtle AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker Dr. J B Shajilin Loret started the speech by explaining the importance of Entrepreneurship. It refers to the process of starting, developing, and managing a new business or venture, typically with the aim of creating value, generating profits, and addressing unmet needs in the market. She said entrepreneurs are individuals who take on the risk and responsibility of launching and running these ventures. She then continues with the importance of entrepreneurship explaining how entrepreneurship plays a key driver of economic growth. She also highlighted the importance of entrepreneurship such as new businesses create jobs, stimulate consumer spending, and contribute to overall prosperity. Entrepreneurs are often at the forefront of innovation.

Successful entrepreneurship can lead to substantial financial rewards, not only for the entrepreneurs themselves but also for their employees and investors. Entrepreneurs introduce competition, which can lead to better products, lower prices, and improved customer service as established businesses strive to stay competitive. She also insisted the common challenges encountered by entrepreneurs. It explores the difficulties in accessing capital and financial resources, including traditional funding options and alternative financing avenues. She also discussed the barriers to market entry and the competitive landscape that entrepreneurs often face. The session was an interactive one and all the participants benefitted out of the program.

On 13.09.2023 a Motivational session on " Successful Start-up Founder" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mr. A.Muthuraman, Founder and CEO Kasadara Tech and Reality Studio from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 39 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights are the major themes on which the IIC is organizing the activities to the students. She introduced the guest speaker Mr. A.Muthuraman, Founder and CEO Kasadara Tech and Reality Studio. The guest speaker started the speech by sharing his personal journey, highlighting the challenges, setbacks, and triumphs encountered along the way which served as a reminder that success often arises from perseverance and the willingness to learn from failures.

He also shared his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to entrepreneurial success, emphasizing the importance of determination, resilience, and innovation. The students were attracted by his personal experiences, which highlighted the difficulties encountered and overcome in the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship. The speaker’s passion and persistent belief in his mission inspired every student to follow their own dreams and aspirations with fresh zeal. He also shared the inspiring story of how his start-up was born out from a simple idea and a passion for Industry. He highlighted the crucial role of a strong and dedicated team in the success of any start-up. The session was an interactive one the students had the opportunity to ask questions. This session served as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

On 11.09.2023 an Orientation on “Entrepreneurship: A Career Choice” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC. The session was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 01.30 PM- 4.30 PM on 11.9.23. 60 students and one faculty participated.

The program started with the welcome address by Mr.P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started welcome address by highlighted the initiatives of Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department in association with IIC in the enrichment of entrepreneurial skills among student community.

To get the attention of the students, the resource person started her session by posting few questions related to entrepreneurship. She continued her presentation by sharing the success stories of few Indian entrepreneurs who were the pioneers of the respective domains. Then she moved the session by asking the question “why people become entrepreneurs?”. Students gave some interesting answers. By acknowledging the answers, she started explaining the importance of entrepreneurship in the career. The attributes like career growth, independent, flexible working hours, grow economically, scope to explore are the key reasons. She continued her speech, by listing the challenges of being an employee in an organization.

The students were given awareness about the concept of startup and the process of developing the startup in Tirunelveli. Finally, the resource person concluded the session by appreciating students for their active involvement in the discussion and answering the questions raised by the resource person.

On 8.09.2023 an Expert Talk on "Become a Student Entrepreneur and Earn While Learn" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. V. Ram Sankar, Aaram Engineering Solution, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM – 12.30 PM. 41 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr. A. Ravi, Head of the Department, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started his welcome address by explaining the activities of IIC. He said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights are the major themes of IIC. He introduced our resource person Mr. V. Ram Sankar, Aaram Engineering Solution, Tirunelveli. The guest speaker Mr. R. V. Ram Sankar started his speech by explaining the importance of entrepreneurship and the importance entrepreneurship. The guest speaker being the designer of the indigenous machineries, he asked the participants to automate the manual methods and design the innovative machinery. He also highlighted the opportunities for the engineering graduates to develop startup. The participants raised some questions to the guest speaker and he answered all the queries with suitable examples.

On 07.09.2023 a workshop on “Identification of Business Opportunities and Mechanism of Product Selection” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the department of Civil engineering from 10.30 AM to 3.30 PM. The resource person for the session was Mrs. R. Swetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli. 50 third year civil engineering students and 1 faculty attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. P.Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The speaker started the session by explaining the business opportunities which enables an entrepreneur to offer a marketable products or services to the interested buyers or end users. She categorized two situational factors, product or service that is still not in existence, product or service that is already in the market but failed to satisfy the customers. She noted that an entrepreneur should create a business that is able to fulfill the needs or solve the problem.

She pointed out three approaches for opportunity identification. The first one is to observe changes in the environment. Next to recognize a need that customers have that is not being satisfied. The final approach is to recognize problems and find ways to solve it. The resource person noted that an entrepreneur should be a divergent thinker i.e he should be able to think all the possible ways to bring a solution. The resource person explained the business opportunities with lot of live examples. Students raised few questions which were clarified by the resource person. The session was interactive one and all the participants were benefitted by the session.

On the 28th of August 2023, a "Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights and IP Management for Startup" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of IT. The session was handled by resource Mr .S. Sheik Sulaiman, Assistant Professor Dept of Mechanical Engineering , Francis Xavier Engineering college. 55 students from Third year IT and 2 faculties of IT department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Ms. R.Shirly Myrtle, Assistant professor, Department of IT from10am-4pm

The resource person being the product developer and the patent holder he started explaining the key concepts regarding the intellectual Property Rights, different types of intellectual properties such as patents, copyrights, design, geographic indication and trade marks. The workshop commenced with an illuminating the fundamentals of IP, detailing the importance of safeguarding innovative ideas, inventions, and creative expressions. He explained the rights of the holders of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets, and their relevance. Through a series of engaging presentations, he explored the intricacies of IP management for startups.

Drawing on practical examples and case studies, participants learned how to identify potentially patentable inventions, strategize patent filings, and navigate the patent application process effectively. Additionally, the workshop addressed copyright considerations for designs, branding through trademarks, and the nuances of trade secret protection. An interactive session allowed attendees to engage directly with him Participants eagerly posed questions, seeking advice on IP-related challenges specific to their startup ventures. The workshop also featured collaborative group discussions, enabling participants to brainstorm and share insights on innovative approaches to IP Management. The event concluded with participants expressing their gratitude for the enriching experience and actionable takeaways. The "Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights and IP Management for Startups" under the guidance of him provided a comprehensive understanding of IP. The workshop undoubtedly played a pivotal role in empowering startups to navigate the complex IP landscape, fostering a culture of innovation, protection, and responsible management within the startup community.

On 28.08.2023 and 29.08.2023 a workshop on “Converting Innovation into Startup and Achieving Value Proposition Fit and Business Fit” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC through offline mode. The session was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, and Mr.P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professors, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 04.30 PM on 28 and 29th Aug. 2023. 42 students and two faculties participated in the program.

On 28.8.2023, the session started with the welcome address by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her speech, she highlighted the prominent role of EDC in association with IIC in enriching entrepreneurial skills to students’ community. The resource person started the session with a questions what is Idea? what is Innovation? He motivated students to answer of these questions. Then he started his session with basic word idea. After giving clear insights about idea, he moved his talk with explaining how a simple idea can be converted into great idea. He gave few ideas to solve the societal problem by fulfilling need, improving the quality of life and to improve the society. After the tea break, he asked the students to write one business idea and randomly choose students to present the business idea.

The resource person gave the example of coffee chain business and Airbnb.com business. He presented how these companies transform idea into great idea and successfully converted into business startup. After the lunch break, he conducted interesting rapid fire quiz round to make the students involve in the session. Students were highly motivated and interested in answering. In the afternoon session, he explained how great idea was converted into new products, services, new promotions. Team was formed with students and each team was consisting of 2 students. Team was asked to discuss about their idea and prioritize their ideas, how to make their ideas into great idea. Each team presented their ideas and the resource person gave valuable inputs and suggestions for each team to convert their idea into great idea and to convert into startup. The first programme was ended with students’ feedback and Vote of thanks.

On 29.8.2023, the session started with the welcome address by Mrs.M.Thanalakshmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai. The resource person started the session by thanking EDC cell for the opportunity given to address the students. She asked to answer for the question, “what is value?” and “what is the key success factor for any business to survive and sustain for longer run?” Students came up with very interesting answers. After collecting all answers she started explaining about value proposition canvas and how this is mandate for business fit. She explained various elements of value proposition canvas such as customer jobs, customer pain, and customer gains with various business examples.

In the afternoon session she organized an activity. Students were asked to write down their own pains in doing their functional and emotional jobs. Students were then asked to rank their pains. Students were given opportunity to present their top 5 pains. After the presentation, the brainstorming session was conducted to convert pains into gains. Very interestingly students with the help of resource person gave lot of ideas. After the activity, the resource person presented real time value proposition canvas and their business fit. She explained how companies for functioning in achieving value proposition into business fit. She appreciated students involvement an active participation throughout the session. The second programme was ended with students’ feedback and Vote of thanks.

On 26.08.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Financial Assistance to Develop Startup” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr.V. Arunsrini Vasan (2016 Batch Alumini) Branch Manager, Bharath Financial Inclusion Ltd from 1.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 43 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi AP/ECE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs.M.K.Subbulakshmi A/P-MCA, and Mrs.D.Angeline Ranjathamani HOD/MCA introduced the Guest speaker. The guest speaker Mr.V. Arunsrinivasan started the speech by giving explanation to the financial assistances provided by the banks and other financial institutions to develop startup. While explaining the financial assistances he gave lot of examples of customers who got the financial assistances through banks and the business for which they borrowed the amount. He also highlighted the problems faced by the business establishments because of the poor financial management. In order to overcome the problems faced by the startups regarding the financial management, he suggested to undergo the trainings offered by the Entrepreneurship Development Institutes in financial management.

Moreover, he listed number of government assistances available to develop startups such as startup seed money, startup India financial scheme. He said most of the entrepreneurs are not having awareness about the various financial assistance schemes provided by the government and other financial institutions. He explained the nodal agencies to be contacted to get the financial assistances and the procedures to be followed for applying for the financial support to develop startups. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. Session came to an end with the feedback given by the students.

On 25.08.2023 & 26.8.23 a workshop on “Business Model Canvas” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC for engineering graduates. The resource person for the session was Mrs.M. Thanalakshmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10.30 AM to 3.30 PM. 50 final year Civil Engineering students and 1 faculty attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. P.Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

On the first day the speaker addressed the gathering by introducing Alexander Osterwalder the creator of business model canvas who proposed the following as the key building blocks of business model canvas. Customer Segments, Value Propositions, Channels, Customer Relationships, Revenue Streams, Key Resources, Key Activities, Key Partners and Cost. The first four factors were detailed on the first day. The first block of the Business Canvas Model is about understanding who is the most important customer(s) we are delivering value to. The second phase is about figuring out the company’s value propositions, and importantly, the UVP (unique value proposition). The third block Channels are defined as the avenues through which the customer comes into contact with the business and becomes part of the sales cycle. Social media, networking were explained as some examples for channels. The fourth block customer relationship is about building nurture and growing relationships with the acquired customers. Amazon was given as an example for customer relationship. The guest speaker gave live examples to explain the concept in all the blocks. He asked all the participants to write each block for the proposed business.

On the second day the fifth phase Revenue Streams were explained as the way by which the business converts the value proposition or solution to the customer’s problem into financial gain. The sixth block of the BMC is related to key resources we need to have, or the assets required to create that value for customers. This could be anything from intellectual property (patents, trademarks, copyrights, etc.) to physical holdings (factories, offices, delivery vans, etc.) right down to finances (the initial cash flow perhaps needed to start your brand). Another key resource every company needs to consider is its human capital. The next step is to define the key activities i.e the areas we need to be good at to create value for your customers. Most modern business models now require brands to build out and work with various key partners to fully leverage their business model. This block was explained by giving KFC & Pepsi as an example. The final phase of the business model canvas, cost includes manufacturing costs, physical space, rent, payroll, but also areas such as marketing activities. The speaker also shared the business model canvas of apple NETFIX and Nike. The session ended with the feedback from the students.

On 24.08.2023 a seminar on "Innovation and IPR" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.E.Manohar, Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 01.30 PM - 4.00 PM. 50 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The resource person explained the concept of IPR and its different types such as copyrights, patents, trademark, Geographical indication, designs etc. The speaker said the main purpose of intellectual property law is to protect the owner’s rights in the intellectual property.

Copyright: The Speaker said copyright is a legal term describing rights given to the creators on their literary and artistic works.

Patent: It enables an inventor to prohibit another person from manufacturing, using or selling the patented product or from using the patented process, without permission. The time period of patent is about 20 years.

Trademark: The trademark is a distinctive sign which identifies certain goods or services as those produced or provided by a specific person or enterprise.

The resource person explained the procedures involved in the patent filing and he showed the documents given by the patent office regarding the filling of patent. The resource person requested the participants to develop innovative products and file patent to protect the rights of the owner. The session was an interactive one and all the participants were benefitted by the program. Finally the participants gave their feedback about the session.

On 24.08.2023 an expert talk on "Transforming the Innovative Ideas into Successful Ventures" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mrs. R. Aandal, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 01.30 PM – 4.30 PM. 72 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr . A. Ravi, Head of the Department, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started his welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC.

The resource person Mrs. R. Aandal explained the role of innovation in the product development and described the process of product innovation. For this purpose, she gave few examples in support of converting the innovative ideas into innovative products. Moreover, she gave few examples of innovative products developed by the students in EEE department. She also requested the students to involve in the industrial applied labs functioning in the college for developing the innovative ideas into innovative products.

The guest speaker also explained the process of transforming the innovative products into ventures. For this purpose, she explained the role of entrepreneurship and how it can be adopted for transforming the innovative products to ventures. She also gave information about the funding support available for developing the startups. She encouraged the students to dedicate their time to convert innovative ideas to solve a customer’s problem. The participants expressed their happiness as the session gave lot of insights about transforming the innovative ideas into ventures.

On 21.08.2023 as a part of World Entrepreneurs Day an expert talk was organized on "Being an Entrepreneur" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Mr. Anto Joel V, Founder CEO -Zenanvibe from 1.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 52 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms. A.Arthy AP/CSBS.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms.A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started her welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC. She introduced Mr.Anto Joel V, Founder CEO –Zenanvibe.

The guest speaker Mr. Anto Joel V started the speech by explaining entrepreneurship. He said that when ideas are born, dreams take shape, and the foundation of a business is laid. He shared his experience by describing his entrepreneurial journey which begun with an idea. He said the idea might come from personal experiences, unmet needs, or a passion waiting to be explored. He said the students should allow their mind to roam freely, and capture every spark of inspiration. He suggested that by becoming an entrepreneur one can take control of their future as they have the autonomy to shape their own path, make decisions, and chart their course to success.

He also stated that the journey of entrepreneurship is filled with ups and downs. He encouraged the students to turn their entrepreneurship dreams into reality and suggested the ways how it can be achieved. He also shared the challenges that he faced during the initial stage. He said that the initial stages of entrepreneurship are often filled with excitement, anticipation and the thrill of pursuing your own vision, bringing an idea to life, and making a mark in the market. He concluded the session by encouraging the students to become an entrepreneur which helps in personal growth, innovative mindset and positive contributions to society. Being the student startup founder the students interacted very freely and gathered lot of information.

On 21.08.2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department organized a program titled “Entrepreneurship as an Alternative Carrier Choice - Discussion with Student Entrepreneurs and Innovators”. The student entrepreneurs participated in the discussion were Mr. V Anto Joel & Darshan Kumar L, Final CSE and A Muthuraman, Ms Dharshni M, Final CSE and Mr. M. Praveen, Third CSE Innovators of Francis Xavier Engineering College Tirunelveli. 42 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President, he said entrepreneurship is an alternative career choice, offering individuals the opportunity to create, innovate, and lead their own businesses. He said entrepreneurs often have a strong desire to bring their innovative ideas to life and make a tangible impact on society. He also said that entrepreneurship can offer greater flexibility in terms of work hours, location, and lifestyle. This flexibility can be particularly appealing to individuals seeking a better work-life balance. He said in entrepreneurship a person enjoys continuous learning and development and allowing individuals to acquire diverse skills ranging from leadership to problem-solving. Then IIC president introduced all the student entrepreneurs and innovators to the gathering and welcomed all the students and request the students to ask more question and make the session interactive.

Mr. Muthuraman, founder and CEO of Kasadara Tech and Reality Studio explained his early stage entrepreneurial experiences and he also shared his personal experience in each stage of business growth. He runs three business under Kasadara Tech and Reality studio and explained the products produced by them. Followed by this Mr. V.Anto Joel & Darshan Kumar L, Final CSE the Founder CEO and Director of Zenanvibe explained their ERP product business. They explained their latest product Inseatfood developed to supply food in movie theatres and avoid being waiting in queue.

Mr.Praveen, Final CSE explained his innovative product Iris Walker. He won Rs.1,00,000 in the TNSI competition for his innovative product. He explained his product uniqueness and how it is different from the product exist in the social domine. He also said that the field study and the reviews collected helped him to improve his smart glass. Finally, student Innovator Ms. Dharshini, Final CSE, the founder of Infosmite explained her innovative product “Voice Assisted wheel chair”. She has got Rs 2,00,000 from EDII TN under Innovation Voucher Program (IVP). She encouraged the participants to involve in entrepreneurship and to develop the startup.

On 21.08.2023 Guest Lecture on "Barriers to Market Entry & Competitive Landscape faced by Entrepreneurs" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC. The session was handled by Mrs.M,Thanalakshmi, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Vannarpettai from 09.30 AM- 12.30 PM. 42 students and one faculty participated in the program.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her welcome address, she listed the activities conducted by the EDC in association with IIC for motivating students to emerge as entrepreneurs. The resource person started her session by highlighting the entrepreneurial opportunities for the MBA students and encouraged the students to make use of those opportunities. She continued her presentation relating to the common barriers to entry in the market for entrepreneurs such as economics of scale, product differentiation, capital requirements, and switching costs, access to distribution channels, cost disadvantages independent of scale, Government policy. For each category she illustrated with real time examples.

She continued her session with the challenges of Indian entrepreneurs in the recent days. She asked the students to answer the questions that the real challenges for Indian entrepreneurs as on today. Students gave some interesting answers like competition of established brands, employee turnover, and resource acquisition and so on. She appreciated students for the answers and started giving few Indian recent case studies to explain the entrepreneurial challenges and strategies used to avoid those challenges. The resource person presented the fundamentals of competitive landscape. With interesting visualization effect, she explained how competitive landscape was done in the business market.

She also added frameworks of competitive landscape analysis such as SWOT Analysis, Strategic group analysis, BCG matrix, perceptual mapping and porter’s five forces model. Students were given with perceptual mapping activity for any company. Students were divided into teams and each team were asked to choose one brand and asked the team to do competitive analysis of their chosen brand with their competitive brand. Students were excited and each team came out with interesting competitive analysis. Finally, the resource person concluded the session by appreciating students for their active involvement an interest towards the session. The programme was ended with students’ feedback and Vote of thanks.

On 18.8.2023 a session on “Role of Innovation and Start-Up Ecosystem Enablers” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Dr.V.Rajalakshmi, HOD MBA,SCAD College of Engineering and Technology , Cheranmahadevi. 45 students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30AM –4.30PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Dr.V.Rajalakshmi, HOD MBA,SCAD College of Engineering and Technology ,Cheranmahadevi by Mrs. P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS .The resource person discussed about the Role of Innovation and Start-Up Ecosystem Enablers. He said that Innovation is the driving force behind the creation and growth of start-ups. It involves developing novel solutions to address existing problems or meet unmet needs. Start-ups bring disruptive ideas to the market, challenging traditional industries and driving technological advancements. Innovations also lead to the creation of intellectual property, which can be a valuable asset for start-ups in terms of competitiveness and valuation.

Start-ups often face resource constraints and high risks. Ecosystem enablers provide them with essential support, guidance, and resources to navigate these challenges effectively. Start-ups with innovative products and services can enhance a country's global competitiveness and reputation as a hub for innovation. Start-up ecosystem enablers refer to the supportive elements, structures, organizations, and policies that facilitate the growth and success of start-up companies. These enablers create an environment conducive to innovation, risk-taking, collaboration, and resource availability. Incubators and Accelerators provide mentoring, resources, and networking opportunities to early-stage start-ups, helping them refine their ideas and scale their businesses faster. The participants interacted with the resource person and clarified their doubts. The session was an enriching experience and moreover, an eye-opening session which helped the participants to gain more knowledge about startup ecosystem and the enablers.

On 17.08.2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Electronics and Communication Engineering department organized an expert talk on “Government Schemes to Support Engineering Students to Develop Startups”. The session was handled by Er. Ganesan, General Manager, District Industries Centre, Tirunelveli. 67 SC/ST students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President and gave introduction about the government schemes to support the development of the startup. He also introduced the resource person Er.Ganesan, General Manager, District Industries Centre, Tirunelveli. The guest speaker started his speech and said that the Government is supporting the SC/ST students through number of schemes to develop startups such as Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme (AABCS), Tamil Nadu SC/ST Startup etc.

The guest speaker started his speech by explaining the role of District Industries Centre in the process of developing industries in the district. He explained Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME), Unemployed Youth Employment Generation Programme (UYEGP), Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), New Entrepreneur cum Enterprise Development Scheme (NEEDS) and Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme (AABCS).

He stated that the objectives of the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme help the Micro Food entrepreneurs for the Technology up-gradation of the existing Micro Food Processing Enterprises by increasing, Branding and Marketing support. The guest speaker also explained the Statup India schemes and the Startup TN initiatives to develop startups. Tirunelveli being the Regional Startup Hub and IT destination as decided by the Tamil Nadu Government, lot of new initiatives are taking place in Tirunelveli.

Similarly, he explained the objectives and eligibility criteria for Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and New Entrepreneur cum Enterprise Development Scheme (NEEDS). As the participants are SC/ST students the speaker explained the Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme (AABCS) in a detailed manner because it is 100% meant for the SC/ST persons. In Annal Ambedkar Business Champions Scheme the project cost include land, plant, machinery, testing equipment and computing devices with cost of land not exceeding 20% of project cost. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. Session came to an end with the feedback of the students.

On 17th August, 2023, an “Expert Talk on Prototype Validation and its Importance” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Mechanical Engineering from 09:30 am to 12.30 pm. Mr.R.Rahesh, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

Resource person explained the concept of prototype and the validation process. He gave few live examples for prototype and explain why the prototype needs to be developed. He highlighted the purpose of validating the prototype such as resolving the design flaws, improving the functionality and providing insights into user’s behaviour and preferences etc. He also stated that it should occur iteratively throughout the design and development process. It includes sketching, wireframes, high-fidelity prototypes and code prototypes. Resource person explored various methods for validating prototypes including user testing, A/B testing and expert evaluation. He emphasized the importance of selecting the appropriate validation method based on the specific goals and characteristics of the prototype.

Resource person acknowledged the potential challenges in prototype validation such as time management, resource allocation, objectivity and communication. To overcome these challenges, he suggested involving diverse stakeholders, using realistic scenarios and iterating on prototypes based on feedback. Finally the expert talk concluded with real time examples from industries like product design, software development and healthcare. The participants gathered lot of information from the resource person. For most of the participants the session was an eye opening one

On 14.08.2023 a session on “Prototype Development and Validation” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by a student entrepreneur Mr.Harries Pandi.P, IIIrd year Computer Science and Business Systems, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 59 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Ms.A.Arthy AP/CSBS. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Ms. A.Arthy, AP/CSBS Francis Xavier Engineering College. She started her welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights are the major themes on which the IIC is organsing the seminars and workshops. She introduced a Student Entrepreneur Harries Pandi.P, IIIrd year FXEC.

The guest speaker Harries Pandi.P started the speech by explaining the concept of Prototype development and validation which are considered as the pivotal stages in the product development. He said that the success in this phase significantly increases the chances of developing a right product. He insisted all the students those who want to become Entrepreneurs in the future should focus on understanding their target market, how to develop a functional prototype, gathering user feedback, and iterating based on insights gained. He explained that by learning from challenges and adapting strategies, entrepreneurs can refine their ideas, create valuable products, and contribute to innovation in their respective industries. He discussed about the successful prototype development which involves a combination of creativity, technical skills, and a user-centered approach. He also delivered the essential step in the entrepreneurial journey to ensure that the final product meets user needs, addresses market demands, and stands a better chance of success in the competitive business landscape.

He also explained the process of Identifying a market need or problem to solve and to conduct a thorough market research to understand the target audience, competition, and industry trends and the several ways to refine the idea based on the insights gained. He insisted the upcoming future entrepreneurs to conduct user testing with a target audience to gather valuable feedback and how to analyze the user interactions, pain points, and suggestions to refine their prototype further. He explained the necessity in conducting marketing research He ended the session by using a quote "The entrepreneur always searches for change, responds to it, and exploits it as an opportunity." – Peter Drucker.

On 14th of August 2023 an expert talk on "Igniting the spirit of Innovation to become a Startup Founder" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of IT from 10.00 – 12.00 P.M. The session was handled Mrs.M Aruna Devi, AP/IT, Francis Xavier Engineering college. 55 students from First year IT and 2 faculties of IT department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Ms. R. Shirly Myrtle, Assistant professor, Department of IT

The lecture on "Igniting the Spirit of Innovation to Become a Startup Founder" was a comprehensive and engaging session that delved into the crucial aspects of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The speaker began by elucidating the significance of cultivating a mindset that embraces creativity, adaptability, and forward-thinking, emphasizing how these traits form the foundation of successful startup ventures. The lecture then transitioned into an exploration of the key stages in the startup journey, from ideation and validation to execution and scaling. Practical insights were shared on identifying market gaps, conducting thorough market research, and leveraging emerging technologies to create disruptive solutions.

The speaker underscored the value of iterative development, risk-taking, and learning from failures, citing real-world examples of renowned startup founders who transformed challenges into opportunities. Additionally, strategies for effective team building, resource allocation, and networking were discussed, highlighting the collaborative nature of startup ecosystems. The lecture concluded with a call to action, encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to cultivate resilience, a hunger for innovation, and a relentless pursuit of their vision. Overall, the session successfully instilled a sense of inspiration and equipped attendees with a comprehensive roadmap for embarking on their own entrepreneurial journeys.

On 14.8.2023 a session on “Challenges Faced by the Startups in the Present Economic Crisis” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Mr. M. Anantha Krishnan II MBA, FXEC. 63 students from third year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs. P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 9.00AM –4.00PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mr.M. AnanthaKrishnan II MBA, FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor Department of AI&DS .The resource person explained the present business scenario and listed the key challenges faced by startups. He discussed few case studies for the failure of the startups. The resource person asked the participants to suggest few strategies to overcome the failure. He also highlighted the crisis, their implications, and potential strategies to navigate these difficulties successfully. By understanding these challenges, stak eholders can make informed decisions to support the startup ecosystem.

The resource person addressed about Startups which play a crucial role in driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation. However, economic crises, such as the one currently being experienced, pose unique challenges that can hinder their growth and sustainability. Startups should consider diversifying their offerings to reduce dependence on a single revenue source, making them more resilient to market fluctuations. Startups should remain adaptable and open to pivoting their business models based on changing market dynamics. By understanding these challenges and implementing the suggested strategies, startups can increase their resilience and improve their chances of emerging successfully from the crisis. Collaboration among stakeholders, including investors, government agencies, and support organizations, is essential to sustaining the startup ecosystem in these challenging times. The participants interacted with the resource person and raised few questions. The resource person being the student entrepreneur he shared his personal business experiences too. Feedback was collected from the students at the end of the session.

On 12.08.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Opportunities to Earn through Boutique" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mrs.Mariyam Rizwana & Entrepreneur, Afizah Botique, held at Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10.00 AM - 12.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA

The guest speaker Mrs.Mariyam Rizwana started the speech by explaining the concept of entrepreneurship and identifying the right business opportunities to succeed in the venture. She also explained how one can earn income out of the boutique business activities. She highlighted the trainings offered such as fashion designing, garment making in the latest style. Moreover, she explained the online training in fashion designing and the e-books on fashion design. Through sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and brand partnerships also she is generating income.

The guest speaker mentioned that whatever the activities we do it should be done in different ways to attract the attention of others and to make a difference in the products offered by others. She suggested to do business through online platform connecting the buyers and sellers of boutique items. She said that the social media can be used effectively to create a strong online presence for your boutique by showcasing its products through unique content on platforms like Pinterest. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. The session came to an end with the feedback from the students.

On 11.08.2023 an “Exposure to Innovation and Product Development to IIC Students of MDT Hindu College, Tirunelveli” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC. The exposure visit was handled Dr. A. Ravi, Professor & Head, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Innovation Ambassador, Francis Xavier Engineering College and Dr. T. C. Subbulakshmi, Professor, Information Technology, Innovation Ambassador, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 40 students from MDT indu College and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The students and staff from IIC institution of MDT Hindu College Tirunelveli visited the Francis Xavier Engineering College Incubation Centres to know the product development and innovation initiatives taken by the college. The students and the staffs visited the Robotics Incubation center and Ideation Incubation center. Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President explained the importance of IIC and the impact created in the mindset of the students.

Dr.Ravi, Professor/EEE, in-charge of Robotics explained the activities of his incubation center and the products developed by the students involved in the incubation centre such as tiny cockroach Robot, Automatic Weed killer robot, Automatic Land Tiller Machine and an Automatic Lemon Separator Machine. He also shared how the problems were identified through his student’s field visits and how they have ideated the problem and give solutions for the problem identified. One of the innovative product developer Mr Praveen, Final CSE explained his innovative product Iris Walker. He explained how his product differ from the product available in the market. He also explained how field study helped him to improve his innovative product Iris Walker. Another product developer Ms. Dharshini, Final CSE demonstrated her innovative product “Voice assisted smart wheel chair”.

The students visited “Ideation Incubation center”. Dr. T. C. Subbulakshmi, Professor incharge of Ideation incubation centre explained the products developed in the incubation centre. The students were shown AR VR based products developed such as Automatic Height Measuring machine, Drone. The students interacted with the product developers and gathered lot of information.

On 8.08.2023 an Exposure Visit to "Cast Aloe Vera Fibre Plant, Kallakad and Thirumathi Vaazhalainaar Porutkal Producer Limited, Kallur” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC of Francis Xavier Engineering College. The visit was arranged for II year MBA students from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm wherein 54 students and 3 faculties participated in the exposure visit. Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College coordinated the visit.

First the students visited Aloe vera fibre plant at Kallakad. This plant belongs to the cottage industry run by a Non Government Organization “CAST”. Students were guided by the Director of the plant. Initially students visited Aloe Vera Extraction plant. Manually and with machines fibres were extracted from Aloe Vera Plant. In this unit students got opportunity to observe dyeing of final products and packaging of products. After visiting the extraction process unit the students visited the second unit where the fibre is used to make products which can be used for making some useful products.

After this the students visited the third unit where the students saw the decorative products made out of banana fibre and palm leaves which can be used in the house. For making key chain dolls, pouches, vegetable baskets and other home used products are produced with the aloe vera, palm leaves and banana stem waste. Students enjoyed the exposure visit which helped them to know the business opportunities in the aloe vera, palm leaf and banana fibre.

In the afternoon students were taken to Thirumathi Vaazhainaar Porutkal Producer unit in Kallur near Cheranmahadevi. In this particular unit, around 30 women workers were working and making hand made products using Vaazhainaar. They were using long moulds to make the product. In this unit students were able to see how fibres were extracted from vaazhai thadai and using moulds manually. At the end of the visit students got an idea to become an entrepreneur using the locally available materials.

On 7.8.2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS organised a session on “Sharing of Entrepreneurial Success and the Potential Opportunities”. The session was handled by the resource person Mr.M.Sabari Armugam II/MBA,FXEC. 64 students from third year AI&DS and 1 faculty member of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs. P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 1.30 PM –4.00 PM.

The program started with the introduction of guest speaker Mr. M.Sabari Armugam II/MBA,FXEC by Mrs.P.Sooriabrabha Assistant professor Department of AI&DS . The resource person addressed about potential business opportunities and emerging trends in various industries. He presented case studies of successful entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable milestones. He analyzed the factors contributing to their success and lessons learned. He highlighted the potential business opportunities and emerging trends in various industries. He explained the challenges and risks associated with entrepreneurship. He shared the strategies to overcome the obstacles and minimize risks. He asked the participants to Identifying gaps in the market to explore the business opportunities in the market.

Highlighting the resources available to aspiring entrepreneurs such as funding, mentorship and networking opportunities, the speaker motivated the participants to choose entrepreneurship as the career choice. He discussed how disruptive technologies can create new opportunities. Moreover, he analyzed the potential international markets and global expansion opportunities for entrepreneurs and the role of incubators and accelerators in supporting startups. All the participants interacted with the resource person and the came to an end with the feedback given by the students.

On 04.08.2023 an Expert Talk on "Enlightening the Future Engineers to Develop Startups” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 94 students and 3 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mr Pradeep T Rajan, Assistant professor, Department of ECE, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker started the session by saying Entrepreneurship education fosters creative thinking and encourages engineers to identify real-world problems that can be addressed through innovative solutions. He also said startups require individuals who can adapt to changing market dynamics. Entrepreneurship education helps engineers to develop a flexible mindset to navigate uncertainties. He said to the technocrats having the entrepreneurial skills can use their technical knowledge for the development of an innovative and commercially viable products.

The speaker said successful startups require collaboration between individuals with diverse skills. Entrepreneurial skills help the engineers to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams. He also said that the now days all the higher educational institutions are encouraging the students to develop startups as their career. He said the business incubators are encouraging the students to develop innovative products with real-world applications which helps them to develop their own startups. He also gave the example of Tesla: Founded by Elon Musk, a visionary engineer-entrepreneur, Tesla revolutionized the electric vehicle industry by combining engineering innovation with entrepreneurial vision to develop the startup. He also explained the Innovation Voucher Program (IVP), a funding scheme of EDII TN which can be used by the students to develop their innovative products.

On 3.08.2023 a seminar on "Mentoring the Budding Engineers to Choose Startup as their Career Option" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director and IIC President, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 170 students and 1 faculty member participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The resource person explained the advantages of being an entrepreneur by giving detailed insight about the business opportunities available in the social domine. While explaining the opportunities he requested the participants to identify the problems faced in the day-to-day life. Then the resource person asked the participants to spell out the problems identified and asked them to suggest some solution for the same. The speaker gave a lot of business ideas from the engineering domine and requested the participants to gather more information relating to that. He also underlined the need to develop the innovative ideas to give real time industrial application. He also gave some examples of the innovations and real time applications. He requested the participants to identify the business opportunities and to take initiatives to start a business venture.

The session was an interactive one and the speaker raised lot of questions to the participants which created a discussion on the topic. The session gave lot of insights about the various business opportunities for the engineering students.

On 03.08.2023, a session on “Avenues in Entrepreneurship for Engineering Graduates” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Civil Engineering. The resource person for the session was Mrs.P.Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 1.30 PM to 3.30 PM. 80 students and 2 faculties attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. R.Swetha, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The resource person started the session with a question why entrepreneurship? And the answer given by her was to provide employment, profit making and the need to learn more. Entrepreneurship is an arena where the Idea and results take precedence over educational background. She also mentioned that unwavering passion, ambition, self-confidence, adaptability, humbleness, hardworking, persuasive and comfortable with risk are some of the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur. She also explained different types of entrepreneurship like small business, online business, home based business and serial entrepreneurship.

The pros of entrepreneurship are the freedom to pursue own vision, potential earnings of an entrepreneur exceed a salaried employee, the control and flexibility of own time, the opportunity to learn and gain knowledge, the sense of pride and fulfillment in accomplishing things, the chance to share learning. The cons of entrepreneurship are work schedule, no regular salary, administrative tasks, competition, disruption of one’s personal life. She concluded the session by motivating the students to develop creative and innovative concepts striking out on an original path to create a new venture thus establishing success in entrepreneurship. Students participated enthusiastically and gathered lot of information about entrepreneurship.

On 2.08.2023 a talk on "Sharing of Entrepreneurial Experiences" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr. R. Rajesh Kumar, CEO, Friends Electrical works, Gangaikondan from 09.30 AM – 12.30 PM. 42 students and 3 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr. A. Ravi, Head of the Department, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started his welcome address by explaining the motto of IIC. He introduced our alumni resource person Mr. R. Rajesh Kumar, CEO, Friends Electrical works, Gangaikondan.

The guest speaker Mr. R. Rajesh Kumar started the speech by addressed the gathering and spoke about entrepreneurship, Risk taking, planning and technology transfer. He also encourages the students to dedicate their time to inventing something new and bringing it to market in order to effect worthwhile social change. He explained some of the highly profitable startup opportunities for Electrical Engineers. He also explained the identification of right partners, staying focused on crucial goals, getting funding for the startups. He gave lot of tips for final year project and how the projects can be converted into innovative products. The participants interacted with the resource person and gathered lot of information regarding entrepreneurship and business opportunities.

On 02nd August, 2023, an “Expert talk on Entrepreneurship for Emerging Engineers” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council in association with the Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering at 09:30 pm to 12.30 pm. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/Mech, FXEC was the resource person for the program. 114 students and 2 faculty members participated in the program. Dr.R.Prem Ananth, AP/ECE coordinated the session.

The resource person discussed about the key takeaways of entrepreneurship landscape such as entrepreneurship, identifying opportunities, innovation & creativity, funding & financing, team building and adaptability & persistence. Resource person began by elucidating the concept of entrepreneurship, emphasizing its role in driving innovation, creating job opportunities and contributing to economic growth. He highlighted that engineers, with their problem solving skills are well-suited to become successful entrepreneurs. Next he explained the importance of recognizing market gaps and problems as potential entrepreneurial opportunities. Students were encouraged to observe their surroundings critically and identify the challenges that could be addressed through innovative solutions. Regarding innovation & creativity, he emphasized that innovation is the corner stone of successful entrepreneurship. Emerging engineers were urged to think creatively and push the boundaries of conventional thinking to develop unique solutions that stand out in the market.

A resource person said entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges. Emerging engineers should overcome the challenges in entrepreneurship by using their technical skills and knowledge. Participants interacted with the resource person and gathered more information about entrepreneurship and the business opportunities. The session came to an end with the feedback given by the participants.

On 29.07.2023 the Ministry of Education, Govt. of India has organized a mega event to celebrate the 3rd Anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the 2nd edition of the Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam from 29th to 30th July 2023, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The mega exhibition event was inaugurated and addressed by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi, and ministers from different ministries of the central and state governments, foreign embassies in India, and industry leaders made a visit to the program for both days and more than 3.00 lakhs visitors have visited the exhibition. More than 300+ stalls and pavilions were set up by various early-stage startups, edutech growth stage startups, innovators, and institutions and they demonstrated their contributions and breakthrough innovation achievements towards achieving the overall goal as envisioned under the National Education Policy 2020. Our Institution participated by watching the webcast/ Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_FuSq_ANmw&t=1051s). The session was organized by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. 46 students and one faculty participated.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi. It coincides with the 3rd anniversary of National Education Policy 2020. He also released the first installment of funds under the PM SHRI Scheme. 6207 schools received the first installment with a total amounting to 630 crore Rupees. He also released education and skill curriculum books translated into 12 Indian languages. The Prime Minister also took a walkthrough of the exhibition showcased on the occasion.

The Prime Minister said that epoch-making changes take some time. Recalling the vast canvas to be covered at the time of the inauguration of the NEP, the Prime Minister praised the dedication and willingness to embrace new concepts of all the stakeholders. He said that in NEP traditional knowledge and futuristic technologies have been given the same importance. He mentioned the hard work of the stakeholders from the world of education for the new curriculum in primary education, books in regional languages, for higher education and for strengthening the research ecosystem in the country.

The Prime Minister pointed out that the biggest injustice to any student is judging them based on their language instead of their capabilities. “Education in the mother tongue is initiating a new form of justice for the students in India. It is also a very significant step towards social justice”, the Prime Minister remarked. Noting the multitude of languages in the world and their importance, the Prime Minister underlined that many developed nations of the world have got the edge owing to their local language. Giving the example of Europe, the Prime Minister said that most countries make use of their own native languages.

The Prime Minister said that we have to create an energetic new generation in the next 25 years of Amrit Kaal. A generation free from the mentality of slavery, eager for innovations and ready to bring laurels in fields from science to sports, willing to skill themselves as per the needs of the 21st century, a generation filled with a sense of duty.

The Prime Minister highlighted the steps for integrating vocational education with general education and the ways of making education more interesting and interactive. Pointing out that the facility of labs and practicals were limited to a handful of schools earlier, the Prime Minister threw light on Atal Tinkering Labs where more than 75 lakh students are learning about science and innovation.

The Prime Minister talked about the responsibility that growing global curiosity in a strong India places on us. He reminded about acquainting the students of the importance of Yoga, Ayurveda, art and literature. He concluded by reminding the teachers about the importance of the current generation of students in India’s journey to a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in 2047.

On 28.07.2023 a Leadership Talk on “Innovative mind set: A Seedbed for Start-up” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Business Systems. The session was handled by Dr. A. Jainul Fathima, Associate Professor, Information Technology, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 63 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr.T Manimozhi AP/CSBS.

The guest speaker Dr. A. Jainul Fathima started the speech by defining the success of start-ups which was deeply rooted in the cultivation of an innovative mindset among entrepreneurs. She discussed how creativity, problem-solving, adaptability, customer-centricity, risk-taking, continuous learning, collaboration, agility, experimentation, and long-term vision collectively contribute to the growth and prosperity of start-ups. She explained the significance of cultivating an innovative mindset as the foundation for start-up success and how it paves the way for transformative journeys. She also explained how an innovative mindset encourages the generation of original and novel ideas, by providing the basis for innovative products or services. She said that objective of the workshop is to cultivate an innovative mindset as a seed bed for start-ups to create a strong foundation that fosters creativity, adaptability, and a problem-solving approach among entrepreneurs and also an innovative mindset serves as a guiding principle to propel start-ups towards success.

She explained the key Characteristics of an Innovative Mindset by defining the groundwork for the success of start-ups and included the various steps such as Creativity and Idea Generation, Fearlessness in the Face of Challenges and also Customer Empathy: which involves understanding the pain points and desires of customers, leading to the development of products or services that truly resonate. She inspired the students to embrace an innovative mindset and embark on their entrepreneurial journey with a vision to change the world through your start-up endeavors. She also encourages them to think outside the box and recognize potential areas for growth and development. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants

On 28.07.2023 a seminar on "Funding Opportunities for Earlystage Entrepreneurs" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The session was handled by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, Assistant Professor, Master of Business Administration, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 49 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The program started with the welcome address by M.Mariammal, Francis Xavier Engineering College. The guest speaker explained the concept of entrepreneurship, funding opportunities for early stage of entrepreneurs. She explained the entrepreneurial opportunities available in the social domine. Moreover, the entrepreneurs are having lot of other funding opportunities such as Angel Investment, Crowdfunding platforms, Incubators and Accelerators and Corporate Partnerships.

• Angel Investors: High-net-worth individuals provide crucial initial investments and mentorship, propelling startups toward growth and sustainability.
• Incubators and Accelerators: Startup-focused programs provide funding, co-working spaces, and mentorship, expediting development and market entry.
• Crowdfunding Platforms: Online platforms enable entrepreneurs to showcase their projects to a global audience, securing funds from individuals who believe in their vision.
• Corporate Partnerships: Collaborating with established companies brings not only capital but also industry expertise, access to networks, and potential pilot opportunities.

Early-stage entrepreneurs are presented with a diverse landscape of funding options, each with unique advantages. A strategic approach to securing funding can significantly enhance the prospects of turning innovative concepts into thriving enterprises.

The participants interacted with the resource person and clarified their queries and gained a lot which could be used for developing startup.

On 28.07.2023 an expert talk on "Funding Opportunities for Emerging Entrepreneurs" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Management Studies department and IIC through offline mode. The session was handled by Mr.P.Selvakumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM- 04.30 PM. 42 students and one faculty participated in the program.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr.V.M.Sangeetha, EDC coordinator of Management Studies, Francis Xavier Engineering College. In her speech, she highlighted the prominent role of EDC in association with IIC in enriching entrepreneurial skills to students’ community. The resource person started the session by explaining the various funding opportunities Venture Capital and Angel funding which helps the startup founders to mobilize the necessary funds. While explaining the Venture Capital and Angel funding, he gave few examples and the success stories of those who received venture capital fund. He also gave detailed explanation about the various government funding opportunities. After giving clear insights about funding concept, he raised the question called “Why funding is required for startups. Students were started answering and after getting answers from students he started explaining the importance of funding in startup activities with real startups illustrations.

In the afternoon session he started the session with quiz related to funding and stages of startup activities in order to understand the listening power of the students. After that he continued his session by explaining the types of startup funding such as Working Capital, Equity Financing, Debt Financing and Grants. Then he discussed about the sources of funding and from ideation to exit options of startups. The programme came to an end with students’ feedback and Vote of thanks.

On 27.07.2023 a “Workshop on Trademarks and Patents as indicators of Social and Environmental Innovation” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC to share knowledge about the innovation and its legal recognition. The resource person for the session was Mr. P. Krishna Kumar, Assistant professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 10.30 AM – 4.00 PM. 40 students and 2 faculties attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The resource person explained the meaning of trade mars and patents with live examples. He described the purpose of the trademarks and patents such as to identify protectable innovations, to suggest steps for transforming innovations into proprietary assets, to use IP information, particularly relating to patents and designs, for further research and development in developing new product and process and finally to utilize the IP information in their business development. The speaker explained the various types of Intellectual Property Rights such as patents, copy rights, trademarks, Geographical indications, designs etc. The speaker also explained the registration process of patents. While explaining the different types of IPR, he gave lot of live examples to make it understand the concept.

He said patents play a crucial role in promoting and protecting environmental innovations in some of the thrust areas like renewable energy technologies, waste management and recycling innovations, sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, smart and sustainable cities. The students actively participated in the workshop and clarified their doubts.

On 27.07.2023 an expert talk on " Startup Opportunities for Electrical Engineers" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Electrical and electronics Engineering. The session was handled by Mr.N.Subramanian, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 02.00 PM - 04.00 PM. 42 students and 3 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha AP/EEE. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, EDC Director.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. M. Mary Sumitha, Assistant Professor, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, EDC Coordinator, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She explained the motto of IIC and the theme of IIC. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights were the themes of IIC.

The guest speaker Mr.N.Subramanian explained the concept of Startup and why the engineering students must opt for developing startup as their career option. He then described the enabling environment created by the government to develop startup and the funding support available to the startup founders. While explaining the startup opportunities he requested the participants about the Market gaps, Innovative product Development, financial Management, Building a strong Team, Scaling and growth Strategies. While explain the concept and the strategies to be adopted while developing the startup he gave number of examples from the Indian Startups. He also explained about E-Waste management, E-waste recycling, developing innovative methods & Technologies for processing new form of E-Waste. He gave tips for better team work. The participants interacted with the guest speaker and gathered lot of information about startups.

On 27.07.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Entrepreneurial Eco System to Promote Startups" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The Session was handled by Ms.A.Abinaya, Technical Freelancer Trainer & Entrepreneur, Event Manager from 10.00 AM - 12.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. K.Subbulakshmi AP/MCA.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. D. Angeline Ranjithamani HOD-MCA, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She said entrepreneurship is one of the important activity which helps the engineers to choose entrepreneurship as the career option. The guest speaker Ms. A. Abinaya started her the speech by giving explanation to entrepreneurial ecosystem and the various players in the ecosystem. The guest being the entrepreneur she described the ups and downs in her entrepreneurial journey.

She highlighted the major components of entrepreneurial ecosystem such as people, technology, capital, and infrastructure. She also gave information about the different types of entrepreneurial ecosystem such as 1) entrepreneurial finance, 2) government policy, 3) government entrepreneurship programs, 4) entrepreneurship education, 5) research & development transfer, 6) commercial & legal infrastructure, 7) market openness, 8) physical infrastructure, and 9) cultural & social norms. She gave examples while explaining the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Moreover, she said that If the location has favorable policies and regulations, particularly those that provide specialized benefits such as tax breaks, visas, grants, and laws for startups, these are extremely valuable components for startup ecosystem promotion, make sure to let potential entrepreneurs from all over the world know about it

She said the entrepreneurial ecosystems drives local economic vibrancy and national economic growth by building fertile environments for new and growing companies to thrive.

The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants.

On 26.07.2023 an expert talk on "Converting Innovation into a Start-up" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. The Session was handled by Mrs.J.Priskilla Angel Rani, Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 51 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by M.Mariammal AP/CSE.

The guest speaker gave awareness about entrepreneurship, startup and innovation. While explaining the concept of innovation, entrepreneurship and startup, she underlined the importance of the same with the help of live examples. She said that the engineers are nation builders so instead of searching for job all the engineers must involve in the development of startups and provide jobs to others. She said in all the engineering domines there are lot of scope for developing startups and she named few business opportunities the students can make use of for developing business ventures. The resource person encouraged the students to write their own ideas for the problems they face in day-to-day life and also she gave small ideas that gave birth to a start up and that became a listed company such as Redbus, Food chains like Mr.Padmasingh Isaac and she gave local start up success stories. The session was interesting and all the participants involved in it.

On the 21st of July 2023, a workshop titled "Supercharging technology with Branding and Marketing " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of IT. The session was handled by Mr.Vasanth Kumar CEO and Founder of Branding Consultant. 52 students from final year IT and 2 faculties of IT department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Ms. R.Shirly Myrtle, Assistant professor, Department of IT from 10 a.m-12.00pm

The Resource person started with a brief background, highlighting the individual's journey as a tech entrepreneur, the challenges faced, and the successes achieved through strategic branding and marketing. He shared insights into the power of branding for technology startups. He highlighted the process of building a strong brand identity from scratch, including choosing a compelling company name, crafting a memorable logo, and establishing a unique value proposition. He emphasized the role of branding in fostering trust and credibility among potential customers and investors .He discussed the critical components of a successful strategy for technology startups. From market research and audience segmentation to choosing the right marketing channels, the talk provided practical advice on reaching the target audience effectively. He elaborated on how technology can be utilized to enhance branding and efforts. The speaker explained the role of artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and automation in optimizing marketing campaigns and personalizing customer experiences. Case studies and real-life examples were presented to illustrate the impact of technology-driven branding initiatives. Following the talk, the participants engaged in a Q&A session with the entrepreneur. The highlight of the program was some of the thought-provoking questions asked by the participants and the resource person responded, providing additional insights and clarifications on branding and marketing strategies.

On 19th July 2023 Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution Innovation Council in association with Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering organized a Guest Lecture on the topic “Women in Entrepreneurship: Breaking Barriers, Shaping the Future”. The session was handled by Dr.N.Hemalatha, Assistant Professor/EEE, FXEC. 40 students and 1 faculty member participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs.A.Amala Manuela, Assistant Professor/EEE.

The resource person explained the concept of women entrepreneurs and the role of women in the economic development of a concern. She also said that women entrepreneurs are those women who think of a business enterprise, initiate it, organise and combine factors of production, operate the enterprise and undertake risks and handle economic uncertainty involved in running it.

Most women with small income are likely to become entrepreneurs. With the support of their husband they do some income generating venture. They face difficulties in obtaining financial support to start their enterprises. Women’s sincerity and hard work is the cause for sustainability and growth. Some of the main intensions of the women entrepreneurs to become an entrepreneurs are to become economically independent, to establish their own enterprise, to establish their identity in the society, to achieve excellency in their endeavour, to build confidence to themselves, to develop risk assuming ability and to claim equal status in the society.

Women are involved in

• Agriculture and Allied industries – such as sericulture, horticulture, dairying and animal husbandry etc.
• Home based industries-such as handicrafts, Agarbati, Candle making, bidi industry, hosiery, and textile, doll making, jewellery pottery, designing etc.
• Outside home industries – such as electrical and electronics, food processing etc.

The participants interacted very freely and gathered information from the guest speaker.

On 17.07.2023 a Workshop on "Entrepreneurship and Pitching for Investment" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. The workshop was handled by Dakshin, Founder, Chairman, CEO & Lead Investor, Dakshin Group of Companies from 09.30 AM - 04.30 PM. 43 students and 2 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The program started with the welcome address by Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President, Francis Xavier Engineering College. He started his welcome address by explaining the need for pitching to get funds from an angel investor or a venture capitalist. He said that being an entrepreneur one can be independent, can have flexible working hours, scope to explore and innovate new aspects in his venture along with financial growth. He introduced Dakshin, Founder, Chairman, CEO & Lead Investor, Dakshin Group of Companies to the students. He said our expert is a young entrepreneur and a venture capitalist, who is willing to invest 2.5 crores to convert an innovative ideas in to a startups.

The guest speaker started the session by introducing his entrepreneurial experience and he also said that he is ready to invest on innovative ideas that needs fund. He said Dakshin group of companies is the combination of 6 companies run by the speaker and they are The Legacy org | Starup plat form, Payir Corp limited, Payir Corp Tech limited, Payir Corp Solutions Limited, the Ark, Luxuriya Fashion & Life Style Private limited and Utopia. He said being an entrepreneur he had the opportunity to explore different business and able to improve the career growth by establishing six companies. He also narrated various examples of successful entrepreneur and inspired the students. He explained the concept of pitching and the information needs to be given during the presentation to convince the potential investors. He said while pitching the innovative ideas to the investor or to the customer a clear idea should be presented including the goals to be achieved.

He also explained Do’s and Don’t’s of pitching and he divided the 43 students to 10 batches and made them to present their business. All the students were given with a business model canvas sheet and they were give 15 mins time to prepare their presentation on customer segments, value propositions, channels, customer relationships, revenue streams, key resources, key activities, key partners and cost. The students with enormous interest prepared their presentation and they started their presentation as a team one by one. The resource person being a business coach and mentor, corrected their pitching and encouraged the students. He requested the presenters to present the revenue streams with more care to attract funds from the investor.

On 14.07.2023 a NEP Ki Samajh Video Competition on Impact of NEP 2020 was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. 45 students participated in the event and the best 15 participants videos were uploaded in the link given by MoE. This event was coordinated by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College. This event was conducted with the guidance of Dr. Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President.

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with MyGov organized a Short Video Competition on the Implementation of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The competition aims to encourage young people to showcase the creativity by composing and submitting short videos about the experiences with NEP. It also aims to motivate the younger generation to make the most of the various learning solutions offered by NEP.

Our students answered 6 questions like What does NEP mean for India’s youth?, How will NEP improve the education ecosystem of India?, How did your internship experience/industry visit make you job-ready? (Job-readiness and experiential learning), How have you benefited from digital learning through online learning platforms like SWAYAM or NPTEL?, How important is it for students to have flexibility to choose subjects based on their interests? (Choice Based Learning) and Engineering courses have been made available in multiple Indian Languages. How is it beneficial for you?. Students prepared a short video and presented their videos to the IIC president. The videos are recorded and they are uploaded in the Google form link given by MIC.

On the 14th July 2023, a workshop titled Expert talk on "Emerging Startup to Cultivate Tomorrows Business Leaders" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of IT. The session was handled by Mrs.J Priskilla Angel Rani ,AP/CSE, Francis Xavier Engineering college. 64 students from Third year IT and 2 faculties of IT department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Ms. R.Shirly Myrtle, Assistant professor, Department of IT from 2pm-4pm

The resource person explained the Emerging Startups which will help to Cultivate Tomorrow's Business Leaders. She discussed the successful entrepreneurs and aspiring business professionals and the opportunities in the startup ecosystem. She also highlighted importance of leadership to lead a successful startup venture. The speaker emphasized that startups provide a unique environment for individuals to gain hands-on experience, develop a broad skillset, and assume leadership positions at an early stage. Moreover, she discussed how startups foster an entrepreneurial mindset, encourage creative problem-solving, and promote agile decision-making.

While explaining the challenges and opportunities, she discussed the challenges faced by the startups in cultivating business leaders, such as limited resources, intense competition, and navigating uncertain market conditions. They also highlighted the opportunities for personal and professional growth that startups offer, including the ability to work on diverse projects, learn from failures, and build valuable networks. The guest talk also featured interactive sessions where participants had the opportunity to engage with the resource person through Q&A sessions and group discussions. Participants shared their experiences, sought advice on overcoming challenges, and learned practical strategies for personal and professional growth in the startup ecosystem.

On 14.07.2023 a Guest Lecture on "Incubation opportunities to develop Innovative Product" was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of Master of Computer Application. The session was handled by Mr. Gani Meeran, Proprietor-Anchor Furniture from 1.30 PM - 4.30 PM. 60 students and 2 faculties participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Mrs. M. K.Subbulakshmi AP/ECE.

The program started with the welcome address by Mrs. Angeline Ranjithamani HOD-MCA, Francis Xavier Engineering College. She said entrepreneurship, startup, innovation and Intellectual Property rights were the themes of Enterpertnership. The guest speaker Mr. Gani Meeran started the speech by explaining the terms, Incubation and innovation. He discussed the interconnections between these two terms and highlighted the need and importance of incubating the innovative ideas to develop prototype which helps to develop the innovative products. He also gave information about the qualities of an entrepreneur such as problem solving, risk taking, persistent effort and innovation to become a successful entrepreneur. Moreover he gave information about IP information relating to patents and designs for protecting the rights over the innovative products.

In the second session, guest speaker explained the types of Intellectual Property Rights. He gave few examples for each type of intellectual properties. He touched the process of developing a startup. The interaction between the students and the resource person was highly motivating to all the participants. Students gave their feedback at the end of the session.

On 13.7.2023 a session on “Venture Capital Funding Opportunities for Start up” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of AI&DS. The session was handled by the resource person Mr.P.Selvakumar HR/MBA,FXEC. 64 students from second year AI&DS and 1 faculty of AI&DS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Mrs P.Sooriabrabha, Assistant professor, Department of AI&DS from 09.30AM – 4.30PM.

The resource person explained the concept of Venture capital (VC) funding and the process of mobilizing the necessary fund for developing the startup. It can be a valuable source of financing for startups and also explained about some common venture capital funding opportunities for startups. The startup founders can approach venture capital firms that specialize in funding early-stage start-ups. Angel investors are individuals who invest their own money into early-stage businesses. They often provide not only funding but also guidance and mentorship. Many large corporations have their own venture capital firms focused on investing in startups aligned with their industry or strategic goals.

The guest speaker explained the government funding options for startups such as Startup India Seed Fund, Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants. These programs are usually focused on specific industries and technologies. He also said that participating in startup pitch competitions and contests can provide exposure to potential investors and funding opportunities. Remember that securing venture capital funding can be highly competitive. Students got idea to improve their chances, develop a compelling business plan, create a solid pitch deck, and demonstrate traction or potential for growth. They understood networking, building relationships, and seeking introductions through network which can also be valuable in connecting with potential investors. In total all the participants gathered lot of information about venture capital funding and the other related information regarding the funding opportunities. At the end of the session feedback link was shared to the students and the participants gave their feedback.

On 12.07.2023 an expert talk on Government Schemes for Entrepreneurship was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC to create awareness about the “Government Schemes for Entrepreneurship”. The resource person for the session was Mrs. Raja Priya, Assistant professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 9.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 120 students and 2 faculties attended the programme. The programme was coordinated by Shirly Myrtle R, Assistant Professor, Information and Technology, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The resource person addressed the students with the note that everyone possess the ability to become an entrepreneur if they train themselves to use their talents and experience. The speaker insisted that starting a business does not happen overnight and the entrepreneurial skills can be acquired through training. The resource person explained in detail about the various schemes, their funding agency and the eligibility criteria for obtaining the necessary fund for developing entrepreneurship.

The Startup India Seed fund scheme envisages building a robust Start-up ecosystem in the country for nurturing innovation and providing opportunities to budding entrepreneurs supported by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The Venture Capital Assistance Scheme supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare is a major scheme for Agripreneurs. Stand-Up India for Financing SC/ST and Women Entrepreneurs above 18 years of age are the other schemes. Any Indian citizen having innovative idea and wish to translate their idea into working prototypes/models/processes would be eligible to apply for the scheme. The resource person also discussed about the other schemes like Single Point Registration Scheme, Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme, Small Business Innovation Research Initiative (SBIRI) Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Ltd. [MUDRA].

The participants interacted with the resource person and gathered lot of information regarding the government funding schemes.

On 12.07.2023 an expert talk on “Entrepreneurial Ecosystem : A Gateway for Business Opportunities” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the Department of CSBS. The session was handled by Mr. P. Selvakumar,H.R., Francis Xavier Engineering College. 41 students from first year CSBS and 2 faculties of CSBS department participated in the program. The program was coordinated by Dr. T. Manimozhi, EDC coordinator of CSBS, Professor/Mathematics, Francis Xavier Engineering College from 10.30 A.M. – 12.30 PM.

The resource person explained the concept of entrepreneurial ecosystem and the different players involved in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He starts with, in today's dynamic business landscape, the concept of an entrepreneurial ecosystem has gained significant attention. The speaker said that the entrepreneurial ecosystem refers to the network of stakeholders, resources, and support mechanisms that foster entrepreneurship and innovation within a specific region or industry. Entrepreneurial ecosystems contribute to economic growth by fostering the creation of new businesses and industries. Sir also added that entrepreneurial ecosystems encourage the exchange of knowledge and expertise between entrepreneurs, support organizations, research institutions, and established businesses.

He also highlighted the business opportunities which can be taken up for establishing the business unit. He requested the participants to analyse the market feasibility, economic feasibility and financial feasibility to choose the right business. He also said that the entrepreneurial ecosystems act as a critical gateway for business opportunities, fostering innovation, economic growth, and job creation. The success of these ecosystems depends on nurturing the key elements, including startups, access to capital, support organizations, research institutions, favorable government policies, and a collaborative culture. By creating an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and collaboration, the regions can position themselves as attractive destinations for startups and entrepreneurs, leading to long-term economic prosperity and societal benefits. The session was an interactive one and the participants gathered lot of information about entrepreneurial ecosystem.

On 12.07.2023 a “Discussion about IIC Activities and Yukti-NIR” was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC to create awareness about the functioning of IIC and to encourage the students to upload their ideas, prototypes and startups in YUKTI portal. The session was handled by Dr. R Prem Ananth, IIC Convener, IIC Innovation Ambassador for "Design thinking & Innovations", Assistant professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli from 01.30 PM - 04.30 PM. 148 students and 1 faculty participated in the program. This event was coordinated by Shirly Myrtle R, Assistant Professor, Information and Technology, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker started his session by addressing the importance of being an entrepreneur rather than an employee. He said Limited Income, Dependency, No Job Security and Stunted Career growth are the demerits of being an employee. He said that choosing entrepreneurship will help to drive passion and fulfill the dreams of an individual. He added Independent, Flexible working hours, grow economically and scope to explore are the merits of being an entrepreneur. He cited Tata Business Empire as an example for the career growth in Entrepreneurship.

The speaker explained the functions of Institution Innovation Council (IIC). He said IIC focus on creating a vibrant local innovation ecosystem, start-up supporting mechanism in HEIs, preparing institute for Atal Ranking of institutions on innovation and develop better cognitive ability among students. He also highlighted few functions of IIC such as conduct of various Innovation, IPR and entrepreneurship-related activities, organizing periodic workshops/ seminars/ interactions with entrepreneurs, investors, professionals and create a mentor pool for student innovators and organizing Hackathons, idea competition, mini-challenges etc. with the involvement of industries.

The speaker discussed about YUKTI – National Innovation Repository (NIR) and he said that YUKTI is an initiative of the Ministry of Education (MoE) Government of India and it is implemented by MoE’s Innovation Cell and AICTE to build a system of repository of ideas, innovations and startups developed in academic institutions and enabling institutions to systematically foster the I&E culture by managing and nurturing these innovations by offering continuous support in terms of one-to-one mentorship, referral and linkage with incubation units, connecting with Angel/Venture Capital (VC) investors network, knowledge agencies, etc. He also explained the procedures to upload the ideas, Prototypes and startup in YUKTI portal.

On 11th July, 2023 an “Expert Talk on Opportunities in Entrepreneurship” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council was arranged for the Computer Science and Engineering from 01:30 pm to 04.30 pm. Dr.Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President and EDC Director was the resource person for the program. 106 students from Computer Science and Engineering students and 2 staff members participated in the program. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, AP/MECH coordinated the program.

Resource person explained the concept of entrepreneurship and the advantage one has while opting entrepreneurship as their career option. During the discussion the guest speaker gave lot of examples of the successful business ventures. He highlighted the significance of cultivating the entrepreneurial mindset to become an entrepreneur. He also explained the entrepreneurial traits such as resilience, adaptability, risk-taking, innovation and a strong passion for innovation. Students were encouraged to develop these qualities to thrive in the competitive business world. Next he revealed the key highlights of entrepreneurship such as understanding the entrepreneurial mindset, identifying market gaps & trends, technological disruptions & innovation, access to funding & capital, importance of networking & collaboration, overcoming challenges & failures and scaling & global expansion. Entrepreneurs who can pinpoint untapped opportunities and address evolving consumer needs are more likely to create successful and sustainable businesses. In addition to this, resource person said the road to entrepreneurship is riddled with challenges and failure is an inevitable part of the journey. Students were encouraged to view failures as valuable learning experiences and to persist in the face of adversity. Regarding opportunities in entrepreneurship, he shared innovative ideas for students to start the business in both online and offline as per recent trends in the global market. In fact the entire session was interactive one and most of the participants interacted freely with the resource person and clarified their doubts.

On 11th July, 2023 an “Expert Talk on Business Opportunities for Budding Engineers” was organized by Entrepreneurship Development Cell & Institution’s Innovation Council at 09:30 pm to 12.30 pm. Dr.R.K.A.Bhalaji, Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering department, Francis Xavier Engineering College, Tirunelveli was the resource person. 117 students and 1 staff member participated in the program. Mr.Shirly Myrtle R, AP/IT coordinated the program.

The resource person explained the various business opportunities in the social domine. He requested the participants to list 10 problems faced in the day-to-day life and to give a solution for the same. Interestingly students wrote number of problems and some participants openly discussed those problems in front of all the participants. Then the resource person guided all the participants to give a solution. Few solutions were discussed in the same session and all the participants refelected on it and gave their opinion also. The resource person discussed about major points related to identification of business opportunities such as identifying market gaps, technology & innovation, product development & prototyping, collaboration & partnerships, funding & financial management and intellectual property protection.

Additionally, he told more ideas to students for creating the business opportunities using bamboo fiber, pirandai plant, banana pseudostem and sea grass fiber. Next he shown the video about e-commerce business opportunities which can be used for the students to understand about the business in e-commerce as per recent trends. The session was useful and interactive one. Participants gained more information from the resource person.

On 06.07.2023 an Awareness Camp for MSME Idea Hackathon 3.0 was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell in association with the IIC and MSME Business Incubator of FXEC. The Session was handled by Shri G. Simiyon, Assistant Director, head of the office, Branch MSME-DFO, Government of India, Tirunelveli from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 62 students and 23 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr K. Lakshmi Narayanan, Head, MSME Business Incubator, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The guest speaker Shri G. Simiyon, Assistant Director, head of the office, Branch MSME-DFO, Government of India started the session by explaining the main purpose of organizing the Idea Hackathon 3.0 and the financial assistances given by the MSME for the development of innovative products and to develop the startup. He said the winners of the Idea Hackathon will receive funding of up to ₹15 lakh and incubation support under the Ministry’s MSME Innovative Scheme for nurturing and development of Idea into prototype. Then he shared the eight mandate for Ideassuch as Marketing & Branding, Innovation related to the customer experience, Ideation, Innovation related to the product idea & concept, Technology, Innovation related to the product functionality, Co-creation, Innovation related to the customer involvement, Technology, Innovation related to the product functionality, Entrepreneurship, Innovation related to through entrepreneurial thinking, Open Innovation, Innovation related to stakeholders and Business Model Innovation, Innovation related to the purpose and strategy.

The guest speaker shared Process Flow of Idea Evaluation. He said there were four stages, stage 1: Evaluation by the Host Institutes, stage 2: Evaluation by the Ministry of MSME, Stage 3: Selection of Ideas by Domain Expert Selection Committee (DESC) and Stage 4: Final selection by Project Monitoring and Advisory Committee. He also shared the ideas on various sectors like Agriculture, Rivers & Ocean Produce based industries, fertilizers, Agricultural Implements & Agro processing and any related sub-sector, Healthcare & Life sciences, Medical Devices, Pharmaceuticals, Biotech, AYUSH and any related sub-sector, Power, Renewables, Electricals, Power Electronics, Energy Efficiency and any related sub-sector, Services, Education, Hospitality, Media, Publishing, Entertainment, Design, Wellness, Logistics, Sports and any related sub-sector and Miscellaneous Sector (Environment, Forests, Water & Sanitation; Foods, Beverages, FMCG, Consumer Goods; Infrastructure, Construction, Housing; IT, ITES, Electronics, White Goods, Telecommunication; Metals, Engineering, Machinery, Automation and Transportation, Automotive, E Vehicles, Railways, Aviation, UAV and any other sub - sector). At the end of the session he cleared the doubts of the participants and also encouraged the woman participants to submit innovative Ideas in the MSME Idea Hackathon 3.0.

On 03.07.2023 a motivation speech on "Role of MSME towards Innovation and " was organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and IIC in association with the MSME Business Incubator. The Motivation speech was handled by Shri S Suresh Babuji, Joint Director/ Head of Office, MSME – DFO, Government of India, Ministry of MSME, Chennai from 09.30 AM - 12.30 PM. 95 students and 14 faculties participated. This event was coordinated by Dr K Lakshmi Narayan, Head, MSME Business Incubator, Associate Professor, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The program started with the welcome address of Dr K Lakshmi Narayan, Head MSME Business Incubator, he welcomed the chief guest and the gathering. He said government allocate funds to support MSMEs in their efforts to innovate and adopt new technologies. Presidential address was given by the Principal Dr.V.Velmurugan, he said that MSME motivates startups with co-working spaces, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to industry experts to help them grow and scale their businesses. The chief guest Shri. S. Suresh Babuji, Joint Director/ Head of Office, MSME – DFO, Government of India, Ministry of MSME, Chennai said that MSMEs often serve as innovation hubs where new ideas and technologies can be tested and developed. MSME are more agile and flexible compared to larger corporations, allowing students to experiment and adapt to market changes quickly. MSME can act as incubators for startups, providing them with resources, mentorship, and a supportive ecosystem to nurture their innovative ideas. He also said that MSME organize hackathon to develop prototypes, products or services that can address real-world problems. He said these challenges will improve productivity, efficiency, marketing, customer engagement, technology adoption and sustainability of any products. He said MSME organize innovation challenges and competitions to encourage startups to come up with innovative solutions to address specific social, economic, or environmental challenges.

Mr G Simiyon, Joint Director/ Head of Office, MSME – DFO, Tirunelveli, spoke on the MSME hackathon 3.0 for woman and said the objective of the scheme is to promote and support untapped creativity and to promote adoption of latest technologies in MSMEs that seek the validation of their ideas at the proof-of-concept level. Dr Lourdes Poobala Rayen, IIC President, also spoke on the occasion explaining the need to promote entrepreneurship ecosystem in the higher educational institutions He said MSME provides financial assistance up-to maximum of Rs. 15 lakh per approved idea through the Host Institute for developing and nurturing of the idea into prototype. He encouraged the students to apply for the MSME Hackathon 3.0 and make use of the funds to develop the innovative ideas in to products. The session came to end with the vote of thanks by Dr L R Priya, Associate Professor department ECE.